John Branca

Herrin-John G. Branca, Sr., 81 of Herrin died 6:00 A.M. on Monday, May 21, 2001 at the Parkway Estates in Marion. Mr. Branca was born January 26, 1920 in Herrin to Robert & Louise (Merlo) Branca. He married Mary Josephine Russo on April 30, 1949 in Herrin. She survives. He retired from the VA Medical Center with 35 years of service. He was a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Herrin. He was a Army Seargeant in the Infantry during WW II. He was a 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He was Past Grand Marshall for Herrin Festa Italiana parade. Survivors include: One Son: John Branca & wife Nancy of Tuscola, IL. Two Daughters: Christine Mattingly & husband Bill of Herrin, IL. Dr. Rita Leahy & husband Dr. Robert Leahy of Austin, TX. Five Grandchildren: Scott Branca of Tuscola, IL. Allison Branca of Nashville, TN. Joseph, Jonathan & Daniel Mattingly of Herrin, IL. One Brother: Ernest Branca of Herrin, IL. One Sister: Angeline Bergin of Herrin, IL. One Nephew: Bob Branca & wife Marsha of Herrin, IL. One Niece: Margie Turner & husband Steve of Tucson, AZ. Two Great Nieces: Natalie Branca of Herrin, IL. Anita Hale of Carterville, IL. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Charles & Joe Branca, one nephew Ernie Joe Branca and one great nephew, Robby Branca. Funeral Services will be 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, May 23, 2001 at at OLMC with Monsignor Ken Schaefer & Fr. Brian Barker officiating. Burial will follow at San Carlo Cemetery with Military Graveside Rites by the Herrin American Legion & VFW Post. Friends may call at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home on Tuesday evening from 6:00 to 9:00 P.M.. The rosary will be prayed at 6:00 P.M. follow by Knights of Columbus 4th degree service. Memorials may be made to OLMC Education Fund or to the Herrin Library Board.