Ernest Branca

Herrin- Ernest William Ernie Branca, 88, of Herrin, passed away at 11:08 AM, Saturday, August 26, 2006 at his home. Ernie was born on November 10, 1917 in Herrin to Bob & Gina (Merlo) Branca. He married Ann Nases on October 25, 1947 in Herrin. She preceded him in death on September 9, 1988. Mr. Branca was a US Army veteran. He founded and owned Branca Brothers Painting in Herrin. Ernie enjoyed working and spending time with family and friends. He was a fabulous father who liked playing poker and was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. He was a lifetime member of the Herrin VFW and a member of the American Legion. Ernie was an active member of the Herrin Eagles Lodge and twice served as State President of the Illinois Fraternal Order of Eagles. SURVIVORS: Daughter & son in law- Marjorie Branca & Steve Turner- Tucson, AZ Daughter number two- Elizabeth Hastings and husband Randy- Energy Sister- Angie Bergin- Herrin Sister in law- Mary Branca- Herrin Sister in law- Lavada Branca- Herrin Nephew- Charles Bob Branca & wife Marsha- Herrin Niece- Christine Mattingly & husband Bill- Herrin Niece- Dr. Rita Leahy & husband Bob- Sacramento, CA Nephew- John Branca & wife Nancy- Tuscola, IL Several great nieces & nephews Special friend- Catherine Khory- Herrin Special friend- Jodi Payne- Herrin He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, son; Ernie Branca, Jr., three brothers; Charles A. Branca, John G. Branca & Joe Branca, and one great nephew; Robby Branca. A graveside memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, September 2, 2006, at Herrin City Cemetery. Monsignor Ken Schaefer will officiate. Friends and family are asked to meet directly at the graveside at 10:30 AM. Arrangements have been entrusted to Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin. Memorial donations are suggested to the American Cancer Society and will be accepted at the cemetery or Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home/ 201 S. 13th St/ Herrin, IL 62948. For more information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.hughesfuneralhomes.com.