Dates
Jack Arthur Branch of San Angelo, Texas, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at the age of 75.
Born on August 17, 1950, in Lansing, Michigan, to Robert A. Branch and Ruth E. Branch (Sober), Jack grew up in Fowlerville, Michigan, and graduated from Fowlerville High School in 1968, where he lettered in both basketball and football. He pursued higher education throughout his life, attending Lake Superior State College, Lansing Community College, City College of Chicago, and the University of Maryland before earning his Bachelor of Business Administration in Management from Angelo State University in 1991. He also earned two associate degrees from the Community College of the Air Force—one in Communication Processing Management (1981) and another in Instructor Technology (1990).
On April 18, 1969, Jack married the love of his life, Rebecca A. Dare, of Fowlerville, Michigan. Together, they celebrated 56 years of marriage, raised three children, traveled the world, and cherished the time spent with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Jack proudly joined the United States Air Force on July 19, 1969. Over the next 21 years, he served his country with honor and distinction, retiring on August 31, 1990, as a Senior Master Sergeant. His career took him across the globe, with assignments in Taiwan, England, Japan, and San Angelo, Texas. Highlights of his distinguished service include:
- 6987th Security Group, Taiwan (1969–1971) – Radio Monitor Analyst
- 6948th Security Squadron, Goodfellow AFB (1971–1972) – Morse System Analysis Specialist
- 6950th Security Squadron, RAF Chicksands, England (1973–1977) – Radio Communications Analysis Specialist
- 3480th Technical Training Group, Goodfellow AFB (1977–1982) – Instructor and Supervisor in Communications Analysis
- Headquarters Fifth Air Force, Yokota AB, Japan (1982–1985) – Reconnaissance Mission Analyst & ESC Representative
- 3480th Technical Training Group, Goodfellow AFB (1985–1990) – Chief, Entry Level Training Branch
Jack’s service was recognized with multiple commendations, including the Meritorious Service Medal (with one Oak Leaf Cluster) and the Air Force Commendation Medal (with one Oak Leaf Cluster).
Following his military retirement, Jack transitioned into civilian life, working with Command Technologies, Inc. from 1992 until 1997, and enjoying time with family, friends, and his community.
Jack is survived by his devoted wife, Becky; his children Teresa Wick and husband James of Katy, Texas, Dr. Joseph Branch and wife Jamie of Fort Worth, Texas, and Retired Major James Branch and wife Karla of Yuma, Arizona; grandchildren Rebecca Wanja (Joe), Elizabeth Junek (Dustin), Sarah Jara (Tim), John Grothaus, Skye Ellis (Wallace), Paige Wick, Jase Branch, Jaxon Branch, Jolee Branch, Allen Branch, Austin Branch, and Addison Branch; and eight great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Dr. David Branch and wife Colleen of Avon Lake, Ohio, Roberta Moore of Opelika, Alabama, and Joann Fetgatter and husband Walt of Avon Lake, Ohio.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Ruth Branch.
Jack will be remembered as a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, veteran, and friend. His devotion to family and country, as well as his kind and steady presence, leave a lasting legacy of love and service.