HOUSTON – Lon Brannies, a 39-year audio industry veteran who spent 27 years with Yamaha Commercial Audio Systems, Inc., passed away April 18 after a long illness.
Brannies started with Yamaha as a professional audio district manager, was named Yamaha Commercial Audio Salesperson of the Year in 2001 and became a consultant marketing manager in 2007.
In 2008, Brannies went back to college and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Business Marketing. He authored numerous articles about audio, made industry presentations and contributed to panel discussions, and attended most trade exhibitions including AES, NAB, NSCA and InfoComm.
"Our heartfelt sympathy is extended to Lon's wife Mary, son, daughter and two granddaughters," said Larry Italia, vice president/general manager, Yamaha Commercial Audio Systems, Inc. "Lon was extremely instrumental to our success and very dedicated to his customers within the commercial audio market. A true Texas gentleman, Lon had many friends within the industry who, along with all of his family here at Yamaha, will remember his deep, hearty Texas laugh. We will miss him."
Born in the Pacific Northwest just after World War II, Brannies spent 15 years as a sound and electronic systems contractor prior to joining Yamaha. He began his technology career in the Air Force, 761st Radar Squadron located in North Bend, OR. An avid reader and saltwater fisherman, Brannies called Houston home.
A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, April 30, 10:30 am at the Memorial Drive Methodist Church in Houston, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Lon Brannies to H.E.A.R. at www.hearnet.com.
