David Claude Gulbranson

David Claude Gulbranson passed away on May 19, 2026, in Salt Lake City, Utah, after a long and valiant fight with cancer and Parkinson’s disease. He was born on September 21, 1949, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Claude and Eleanor Gulbranson.

Following in his father’s footsteps, David joined the Navy after high school and served for 17 years, including time in Vietnam. He later graduated from Northwestern University with a degree in deaf education, just as his father had done. Although his education pointed him in one direction, David ultimately built a successful 35-year career as an engineer with Johnson Controls.

On November 29, 1997. David married Barbara Lingwall, and together they created a life filled with adventure. They traveled extensively, exploring the United States in their 27-foot motor home, taking multiple cruises, and visiting more than eight countries – though somewhere along the way, they lost count. Their years together were rich with experiences.

David was 77” tall and took great pride in the things he loved. He carefully maintained his coin and stamp collections, approached his daily routine with remarkable dedication (often requiring a full two hours to get ready), and could frequently be found raking the rocks in his yard and combing the fringe on his oriental rugs until they were just right. Family members also learned to keep an eye on their kitchens, because David had a habit of rearranging them when no one was looking – always convinced his system was better. He enjoyed ice cream covered in milk, Coke with chocolate syrup, and more salt than was decent; combinations that warranted a few side glances but brought him immense joy. David was a very serious man and didn’t always appreciate the jokes, but he gave his family much to laugh about.

David is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara; daughters Yvonne Rose (Dave) and Yolonda Gulbranson; stepchildren Arnie Lingwall (Jaime), Ross Lingwall (Leisa), Jason Lingwall (Angie), Carol Monson, Matt Lingwall (Tazia), and Jon Lingwall (Heather); 18 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; his sister Diane Sellenrick (Howard); and his brother Dan.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Elle; his brothers Dale and Douglas; and his son-in-law, Doug Monson.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 29, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Memorial Redwood Mortuary, 6500 South Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah. You may visit the family prior to the service at a viewing from 1:00 to 1:45 PM. Interment following the service at Memorial Redwood Cemetery at the same address.