Jourdan L. Braman

Jourdan passed away on Tuesday July 18, 2023 at his home with his wife by his side. Jourdan was 61 years old. He was born on May 18, 1962, to Franklin and Suzanne (Ruterbusch) Braman in Bay City, Michigan. Jourdan is survived by his wife Karen and four stepchildren; Tiffany (Randy) Badour, Chuck (Jesi) Michael III, Jenna (Brandon) Michael and Aaron Michael; four step grandchildren, Jaxon, Emersyn, Whitley and Finn; mother Suzanne (Braman) Williams; brother Tawn (Kathy) Braman and their daughters Farran and Morgan; sister Malora (Ralph) Nimergood and their children Justin (Thuy) Nimergood, Jessica (Thomas) Vecchio and Jake; his best friend Dave Schmidt, and never to be forgotten his beloved cats, Baby Kitty (By-Tor) and her nemesis, Al.
Jourdan began his career in law enforcement as a police officer with Saginaw Township. Wanting to have a greater impact on the lives of others, he took a position with Wolverine Human Resources and worked for many years with at-risk youth. He later obtained a Master’s Degree in psychology and became the Co-Occurring Supervisor with AuSable Valley Community Mental Health. Prior to his retirement, Jourdan worked his dream job as the Operations Manager at the Dow Event Center.
In high school, Jourdan played football and was involved in the local community theatre with his father, sister and future brother-in-law. Jourdan’s early interest in music led him to a career as a professional drummer. He played in several local bands, including The Beast, Slippery Kitty, and Seventh Stone. He was a huge fan of Rush, Genesis, Yes and other progressive rock bands. He also owned a production lighting company for many years, providing spectacular lighting for music venues, wrestling matches and weddings.
Jourdan had many other varied interests including astronomy, physics, and philosophy. He enjoyed boating, camping, and traveling, and was a huge fan of all things Star Trek and Monty Python. Jourdan also enjoyed going big on lighting and decorations for Halloween and Christmas, which became a “must see” spectacle in the neighborhood each year.
Jourdan had an uncanny ability to remember very specific facts and details about people, places and things. He would regularly quote entire scenes from movies and TV shows. Jourdan loved to entertain with his off-beat sense of humor and often held “Bad Movie Night” with his good friend, Dave.
A kind-hearted, selfless, caring, and generous man, Jourdan enjoyed encouraging others to seek a sense of adventure in life. His gregarious nature made it easy for him to make friends wherever he went. He held a special place in his heart for children and helpless animals. He often held events to collect on behalf of Toys-for-Tots, because he believed all children should get at least one present for Christmas.
Jourdan’s most cherished time was spent at home with his wife Karen and their two fur babies. He was truly loved and will be sorely missed.
At the request of Jourdan, cremation has taken place and a Time of Sharing will take place at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 25, 2023 at Gephart Funeral Home. Friends may visit with the family on Tuesday, July 25, 2023 from 2:00 p.m. until the Time of Sharing. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to Toys for Tots – Saginaw County, Good Samaritan Rescue Mission of Bay City, or the Humane Society of Bay County.