JAMES A. "AL" BRANNON, age 62, of Portage, passed away Friday, October 10, 2014 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on March 21, 1952 in Gary to the late James R. and Thelma Brannon. Al retired from Arcelor Mittal after 43 years. He married the love of his life, Susan Ordway on August 7, 1971 in Lake Station. His greatest joy was being a loving Papa to his grandchildren. Al will be deeply missed.

Al is survived by his wife of 43 years, Susan; 2 sons, Marc (Katrina) Brannon of Portage and Scott (Jennifer) Brannon of Valparaiso; 5 grandchildren, Tyler, Grace, Isaiah, Luke and Emmy; 2 sisters, Sheila (Michael) Chatwell of Wanatah and Linda Brannon of Valparaiso; sister-in-law, Rosemary Brannon of Chesterton; special niece, Jenn; other loving family.

He was also preceded in death by his brother, Lloyd.

Memorial contributions in Al's memory are preferred to VNA Hospice.

A memorial visitation for Al will be Monday, October 13, 2014 from 4:00 p.m. until the time of service at 6:00 p.m. at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage with Pastor Bob Burton officiating. For information, please call (219) 762-3013 or go online at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.