Branko Bucifal

Branko Bucifal, 43, passed away unexpectedly January 27, 2022, in Santa Barbara, CA. He was born December 22, 1978, in Croatia to Franjo and Slavica Bucifal.

Branko, his parents, and older brother immigrated to Santa Barbara, CA when he was 11 months old. As a youth in Santa Barbara, Branko enjoyed many outdoor activities, including playing soccer for 10 years as a left-footed forward at which he excelled. He also rode BMX at the Eling’s park track and built jumps and learned tricks all throughout the community.

As an adult, Branko was equally as talented and driven and worked for many years as a painter for the same company his father once worked for, Wynne painting. He later worked for Brunner painting with one of his best friends, Joseph Estrada. After years of perfecting his craft, he went into a new career in tile and worked for Pozatto Tile, with his childhood neighbors and friends, Eric and Michael Armann.

At age 23 Branko became a co-parent with Susan Meza to Leilani. He was able to share in many of his favorite hobbies as an adult with her. Together they were able to go to the creek and catch crawdads. Ride to Goleta beach to fish off the pier and take his boat out to fish. Taking from his childhood passions, he never lost his love of dirt bikes and bike riding even as an adult. There wasn’t much Branko couldn’t do or didn’t enjoy being a part of. He was a great cook, enjoyed welding and building BBQs and was a very talented artist. Branko really was a jack of all trades.

Branko is survived by his parents Franjo and Slavica Bucifal, siblings Silvio and Eva (Chris), daughter Leilani, nephew Xavier and niece Katarina.

In the spirit of Branko, a Celebration of Life will be held at Goleta Beach Areas A & B on Sunday March 27, 2022, from 1-5. Those interested can join us for a ride starting at Payton Street at 11am where we will ride to Goleta beach for the event. If you would like to bring anything, please contact his sister Eva and let her know.