Don E. Branker passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 3, 2020 at age 75, after battling Myasthenia Gravis for the past 7 years summed-up by COVID19.
Donny was preceded in death by his parents Leo & Margie Branker, his sister Berkie Branker and wife Susan Branker earlier this year. He is survived by his son and daughter in-law Shane and Susan Branker and three grandchildren Isabella, Mason & Eliana of San Diego California; brother and sister in-law Steve and Jamie Branker of Northridge California; nieces Cyndee Branker, Ashley Lew, Lindsey Branker, Casey Branker, and Tess Branker; nephew Darren Ross; step-son James Goldbard; and many loving cousins and friends.
Donny spent his life as a Concert and Event Promoter with a passion for rock 'n' roll. By the age of 40, his accomplishments were unimaginable. His career began producing numerous high-profile concerts and festivals throughout the US and beyond such as the famous Cal Jams I and II with over a half-million festival-goers, the "World Skateboarding Championships" in the 1970s, the famous Evil Knievel Snake River Canyon Jump, the film Richard Pryor "Live", Dar Robinson's Festival of Thrills Shows, and hundreds more. He was the TV host of ABC's "In Concert" interviewing the biggest rock stars such as Keith Moon and Ringo Star. He received the LA Music Award's Hollywood Walk of Fame Star in 2008. Whether it was fighting Aerosmith's Steven Tyler over black jelly beans or escapades with Jim Morrison, his "confirmed" never-ending tales label Donny as a true Legendary Promoter/Producer and Rock Star in his own right.
For Donny, it was never about the money, it was about the challenge and desire to entertain a crowd. He was a perfectionist to all ends. Someone's word and a handshake were all that was necessary to gain his trust and loyalty. But, never cross him. He had the heart of a lion but was tough as nails and never turned a cheek to a good butt-kicking.
The entertainment industry lost a one-of-a-kind, self-made original in Don E. Branker. He will forever be known as the Greatest Producer, Promoter, and Event Coordinator of the 20th century.