Kristjahn Gulbranson

Kristjahn “Kris” Gulbranson, 69, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and drummer, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, surrounded by his daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren.

Kris grew up in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. He was the second child to Clifford and Audrey Gulbranson. He loved playing music, reading books, and spending Pme with his older sister Valjean and younger brother Eric. In 1970 the family moved from Sioux Falls to Mobridge, South Dakota for Kris’ high school years. This is where Kris’s lifelong love of music took off. He had been drumming with the band at his family’s church at a young age but later found his true musical passion in rock ‘n’ roll. Once he became the drummer for a popular high school rock band, music became his lifelong rhythm. He graduated from Mobridge High School 1974 with sticks in hand and rhythm in his soul.

It was during his college years at Augustana College in Sioux Falls that Kris met the love of his life, Dana. Their story was something out of a song—he was prom king, she was prom queen, and together they built a beautiful life. Married on December 23, 1978, Kris and Dana moved to Boise, Idaho, in 1982, where they welcomed two daughters, Carlye in 1984 and Solvae in 1988, the joy of their lives.

Kris built a successful IT career, working for The Simplot Company and St. Luke’s Health System. Outside of work, he was rarely idle - coaching his daughters’ soccer teams, exploring the Idaho wilderness on weekend camping and sailing trips, and always playing and listening to music. His passion for drumming spanned decades, performing with countless local rock bands well into his 60s. He leaves behind a family and a community who will forever feel his beat in their hearts.

Kris was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Audrey, and by Dana, his cherished wife of 32 years.

The Gulbranson family wishes to thank everyone who offered love, support, and care during Kris’s final years. A celebration of life will be held on August 23, 2025, at the home of his daughter Solvae Hawley.