Sara J. Brannen

Sara Jane Brannen passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Tuesday, August 25th at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics.

The daughter of Orville and Genevieve Bain, Sara grew up with a strong sense of family and community. Sara was Born October 5, 1955 She graduated from North High School in 1973 and went on to hold many jobs throughout her life. She worked many years at Southeast Polk High School leading the building and grounds crew. Most recently retiring from Forward Air in May 2023. Of all her roles, however, her most treasured was being a devoted caretaker to her son, Travis.

Sara had a zest for life and a personality that made an impression wherever she went. She was an avid morel mushroom hunter though if she couldn’t find them herself, she was just as happy to spend every penny to make sure she had a few. Each year, she looked forward to the Iowa State Fair, a tradition that brought her joy and countless memories. At home, she was known for her mad cooking skills, always making enough food to feed an army, and for her gift of gardening, where her green thumb transformed every space she touched.

Those left to cherish her memory include her sister, Patricia Shiffer; her children Harry Brannen, Travis Brannen, Kevin Brannen (Kristina Brannen), and Kristina Katherman (Andy Katherman); 14 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren who adored her; and her beloved dogs, Bear and Minnie.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Orville and Genevieve Bain, and her sister, Anita Tidball.

Sara will be remembered for her humor, her love of family, her cooking, and her ability to make every gathering bigger, brighter, and warmer. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her most.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to the staff at the MICU - University of Iowa for the care of Sara.

Services will be held on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at Hamilton’s Altoona Funeral Home, 105 4th Street SW, Altoona. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., followed immediately by the funeral service.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family in loving memory of Sara.

Print