Memorial trees planted for:

David Chester Bratton

In Celebration of the Life ofDavid C. Bratton David C. Bratton, born October 9, 1947, in Fulton, Missouri, passed away on February 24, 2026, after a life defined by service, leadership, generosity, competition, adventure, and unwavering devotion to his family. David proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. That experience help shape the discipline, resilience, and steady resolve that would guide him throughout his life. His respect for those who served never faded. In later years, he helped sponsor the George Bush Warrior Open at Las Colinas Country Club, where he formed some of his most meaningful friendships with wounded veterans who competed in the tournament. Supporting fellow veterans was deeply personal to him. Dave began his career in the material handling industry as a salesman in Missouri before joining Briggs Equipment in Dallas in 1988. Through decades of leadership and vision, he rose steadily through the organization — serving as Branch Manager, Region Manager, Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, President, and ultimately Chief Executive Officer. In 2006, he became President and CEO of Briggs International, guiding domestic and international operations and driving strategic acquisitions, including expansion into the United Kingdom and Mexico. Under his leadership, Briggs grew from $80 million in revenue in 2000 to $675 million by 2013, becoming the largest material handling equipment dealer in the world. In 2008, Dave was appointed to the Board of Directors of Sammons Enterprises. He was named Chief Executive Officer of Sammons Enterprises in January 2012 and served in that role until his retirement in December 2013. Throughout his career, he was known for business excellence, strategic vision, integrity, and a deep commitment to the people he led. Beyond business, Dave believed in giving back. He introduced the Sammons family of companies to Habitat for Humanity in 2004, helping launch what became the Sammons Partner Program — a model where the company provided financial support while employees volunteered their time. Under his encouragement, multiple Habitat homes were built across Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Des Moines, and Asheville. He established the Briggs Scholarship Program in 2006 to support the college-aged children of employees. He led Briggs into partnership with Make-A-Wish Foundation in 2009, helping grant more than 40 wishes. He also introduced Briggs and Sammons to Captain Hope’s Kids in 2008 and later served on its Board of Directors, supporting homeless children throughout the Dallas area. While his professional accomplishments were extraordinary, those closest to him knew that his competitive spirit extended well beyond the boardroom. A lifelong scratch golfer, Dave won his final club championship at age 72 at Las Colinas Country Club — a place where he and Karen built lasting friendships and shared countless meaningful memories. He proudly shot his age every year beginning at 67, a testament to both his skill and his relentless competitiveness. Las Colinas CC was more than a golf course to him; it was a community and a second home. Dave and Karen also shared a deep love for travel. Together — and often with their children and grandchildren — they explored the world, creating unforgettable experiences across countries and continents. Many of Dave’s favorite memories were made on those journeys, surrounded by family, laughter, and the adventure of discovering new places. For the past 40 years, Texas was home. It was where he built his legacy, forged lifelong bonds, and raised a family who loved him deeply. David is survived by his loving wife, Karen Bratton; his sons, Chet Bratton and wife Shellie, and Eric Bratton and wife Diana; his grandchildren, Ashley and husband Joe, Taylor and husband Sal, Eli, and Arson; his great-grandsons, Tano and Luca; his sisters, Carolyn, Rita, and Audra; and he was preceded in death by his brothers, Richard and Donald. Though he led companies and competed fiercely, nothing brought him greater pride than his family. His grandchildren and great-grandsons were his greatest joy. He cherished watching them grow, guiding them quietly, and celebrating their lives with the same passion he brought to every championship, every milestone, and every success. In the end, his proudest title was not CEO or Club Champion — it was husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. Celebration of LifeFriday, March 20 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Las Colinas Country Club 4400 N. O’Connor Rd Irving, TexasIn lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his honor to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

October 9, 1947 - February 24, 2026

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22 Trees have been planted in memory of David Bratton.

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Memorial Trees

Anonymous

April 06, 2026

The planting of 3 memorial trees in the honor of David Chester Bratton has been arranged by Anonymous. Plant a tree

Karen , so sorry for your loss. Although I did not know him. I read he was a wonderful man, With Deepest Sympathy.

John and Terri Tennant

March 19, 2026

The planting of 5 memorial trees in the honor of David Chester Bratton has been arranged by John and Terri Tennant. Plant a tree

Cheers to the best Nieghbor anyone could ever wish for!

Anonymous

March 18, 2026

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of David Chester Bratton has been arranged by Anonymous. Plant a tree

Chet and familyCelebrate your dad well today! He is with you all and always will be.Hugs and prayers. Mike and Kim Rogers

Irving Cares Board of Directors and Staff

March 18, 2026

The planting of 3 memorial trees in the honor of David Chester Bratton has been arranged by Irving Cares Board of Directors and Staff. Plant a tree

Remember that we love and care about you.

The Bacons

March 17, 2026

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of David Chester Bratton has been arranged by The Bacons. Plant a tree

We will miss you, Dave! Condolences to the Bratton family.

Anonymous

March 09, 2026

The planting of 5 memorial trees in the honor of David Chester Bratton has been arranged by Anonymous. Plant a tree

Kathy and Shawn Brookshire

February 28, 2026

The planting of 3 memorial trees in the honor of David Chester Bratton has been arranged by Kathy and Shawn Brookshire. Plant a tree

Such a wonderful person and friend, with such a great vision and kind heart, always looking out for the opportunity to help others. Love and peace.

Christina and Terri Bush

February 27, 2026

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of David Chester Bratton has been arranged by Christina and Terri Bush. Plant a tree

May this tree grow as strong as the impact you have left on every person that ever crossed your path

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