Robert Branham

Robert C. Branham CHESAPEAKE - Captain Robert C. "Bob" Branham, retired U.S. Coast Guard, 82, passed away Friday, May 21, 2010, at Chesapeake Regional Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Charlottesville, Va., Jan. 20, 1928, the son of Robert L. and Lessie S. Branham. He graduated as valedictorian of the Broadus Wood High School, Class of 1945. and enlisted in the Coast Guard in 1946. He later attended the Coast Guard Academy and received his commission as an ensign in 1952. During his 36 years of service, Capt. Branham qualified to fly 18 different types of fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters and flew aviation missions that spanned from the North Slope of Alaska to Antarctica and from the Mediterranean westward to the Bering Sea. He was an avid woodworker who loved to design and make things for family and friends. He also enjoyed playing golf, fishing, and participating in alumni events with his Academy classmates. He was a charter member of the Ancient Order of the Pterodactyl and loved to get together with fellow Coast Guard aviators at related events. After retiring in 1982, he served as a volunteer with the American Red Cross, and he and his wife were actively involved in both the Auxiliary and Volunteer Services at Chesapeake General Hospital. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Barbara; his sons, U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral Steve Branham and retired U.S. Coast Guard Capt. Bruce Branham; and three grandchildren. The funeral will be conducted at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 27, at Oman Funeral Home & Crematory, 653 Cedar Road, Chesapeake, VA 23322. The Rev. Thomas Mercer will officiate. Interment will follow at Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery. The viewing will begin with the family receiving friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 26, in the Great Bridge Chapel of Oman Funeral Home & Crematory. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Captain Bob Branham's name to the Coast Guard Mutual Assistance Fund at www.cgmahq. org/contributions/memorial. html. Friends are also invited to send condolences and sign the online guestbook at www. omanfh.com.