Timothy Herbranson

MSgt. Timothy Martin Herbranson, USAF (Ret.), entered into rest on Monday, June 23, 2025. He was 61 years old.

Born on March 21, 1964, in Storm Lake, Iowa, Timothy was the youngest child of the late Harold Herbranson and Barbara (Refsell) Herbranson. Raised in Council Bluffs, Iowa, he graduated from high school before enlisting in the United States Air Force at just 17 years old. He knew there was a whole world out there that he just needed to see. Tim, or "Herb" as he was known to friends and colleagues alike- embarked on his military career as an Air Transportation Craftsman. He was a Veteran of the Gulf War Era and Peacetime, serving in several major operations including Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, the Global war on Terrorism, and the Mogadishu Conflict. His assignments took him all over the world- Norway, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Russia, Germany, Jamaica, Alaska, Guam, South Korea, and Philippines- just to name a few. Herb retired after rising to the rank of Master Sergeant in 2005.

Following his active duty career, Tim worked briefly for the railroad before continuing service to his country. He spent the majority of his civilian career in the air transportation sector for the Air Force. He spent years working in Alaska, Guam, and Greece, before his final retirement in 2022. In each role, he was admired not only for his competence and leadership, but for his ability to build strong, lasting relationships. He was dedicated and calm under pressure. He was truly well-liked by all who had the privilege of working with him.

Outside of his career, Herb was a man of simple pleasures. He enjoyed days spent by the water. He liked fishing, hunting, boating, and walking. He loved animals and nature and working in the yard. He had a special bond with dogs and found great joy in their companionship. Tim was convinced the 80's had the best music ever and his love for that iconic era never faded. He enjoyed getting behind the grill and loved sharing good food with good company.

Herb was a natural jokester with an infectious sense of humor and could make people laugh with ease. He effortlessly sparked inside jokes with loved ones, turning simple moments into unforgettable memories. Tim had a way of making difficult challenges seem manageable. Through even the toughest moments, he never missed a beat- always ready to break tension with a perfectly timed joke. It was ridiculous, it was amazing, it was uniquely his gift. It was so perfectly him.

In addition to his parents, Timothy was preceded in death by his brother, Kenny Herbranson; and brothers-in-law Harlen Raszler and Dan Wobbema; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Genara Candelaria Villamonte and Juan Villamonte.

His memory will forever be treasured by his children, Lori Herbranson of Warner Robins, and Charlette Watson (Daren); mother of his children, Raquel Herbranson; grandson, Bryan Watson; and siblings, Kathy Raszler of Council Bluff, Iowa, Diane Thieschafer (Gary), Alan Jensen (Karla), Joyce Klepfer (Steve), Patty Lainson (Mark), Miriam Herbranson Teeple, and Melody Wobbema; nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of family and friends.

Memorial Service will be held at 4:00 PM at Hoy Kilnoski Funeral Home on Friday, September 26, 2025. In Lieu of flowers, the family will direct memorials.