Obituary: L. Bradford Campbell
Author: Family of Brad Campbell
L. Bradford Campbell
Family of Brad Campbell
Laurence Bradford Campbell, 83, known to everyone as Brad, passed away on August 15, 2024, in Gilbert, Arizona, surrounded by his family. Brad was born October 15, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, the oldest son of Walter R. and Martha E. (Mullican) Campbell. He grew up on the family farm in Delta Mills, Michigan with his parents, grandparents and younger brother, Alan. He graduated from Grand Ledge High School and Michigan State University where he earned a degree in Economics.
It was during his years at MSU that he met the love of his life, Julie Ann Taliaferro. They married in 1965 and were completely devoted to each other for 59 years. Brad’s main priority was Julie’s care and happiness until his last moments. They raised two children, Lisa and Steven and eventually had three grandsons, Ethan, Parker and Greyson. He was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather and his family was the center of his world.
After graduating from MSU, Brad started working at Industrial Welding, Inc., a family business that remanufactured and repaired heavy metal forming machines used in the automotive, mining, aerospace and defense industries. Starting as an engineer, Brad spent 30 years working his way up to President/Co-Owner and expanded the business by opening three new plants around the county making Industrial Welding an industry leader with a reputation for quality and customer service.
Even while working long hours, Brad and Alan continued farming together as an enjoyable side business. Brad also spent a lot of time with the family’s horses, was an avid skier and volunteered as finance director for the Michigan Quarter Horse Association. He was a loyal Spartan fan and spent many years attending football, basketball and hockey games. After selling Industrial Welding, Brad and Alan started Campbell Brothers, Inc. and developed two luxury home subdivisions in the west Lansing area.
Brad and Julie had an opportunity to purchase land in Montana and for the next 25 years, Double C Ranch was the happiest time of their lives. With the help of their son Steven, they quickly transformed the small cattle ranching operation into a large productive farm. Brad enjoyed endless hours in the tractor experimenting with alternative crops before settling on a thriving dairy hay operation, selling top-quality alfalfa around the world. He thoroughly enjoyed the day-to-day farming life and he loved the beautiful views of Big Sky country.
In addition to Double C Ranch, he developed two more subdivisions and continued to give back to his community. He served on the Broadwater Planning Board helping to update regulations for county subdivisions. As a member of the Broadwater-Missouri Canal Board, he was instrumental in initiating the additional water release from the DNRC. He was also passionate about his time on the Townsend Health Systems Board of Directors. He served for 10 years as a Trustee, Vice Chair and Board Chair, and was determined to help keep local healthcare available to the citizens of Townsend. Acting as a spokesperson for Broadwater Health Center, Brad supported their fundraising efforts and was instrumental in securing their partnership with Billings Clinic. Brad thoroughly enjoyed the time with Broadwater Health Center and treasured the friendships he created over the years.
When the time came to sell the ranch, Brad and Julie retired to Gilbert, Arizona to be closer to family.
Brad is survived by his wife, Julie. His children, Lisa (Scott) Hufnagel and Steven (Heather) Campbell. His grandsons, Ethan and Parker Hufnagel and Greyson Campbell. His brother Alan (Amy) Campbell, many brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family and many, many friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents Walter and Martha Campbell. Cremation has taken place at Bunker Family Funerals and Cremation in Mesa and a memorial will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, consider donating to Treasure House Phoenix. https://www.treasurehouse.org/
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