Michael “Mike” Braniff, age 70, passed away in Wichita, KS, on August 2, 2026. Mike was born at Tinker AFB and, for the many places he lived, always considered Oklahoma his home. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Genevieve (Moran) Braniff, Sr., to whom Mike gave wonderful care in their final years, especially Mom’s road trip to see family just months before her passing. His brother John, Jr. (Tess) and beloved sister Jeanne Hardey (David. Sr.) also preceded him in death. Those left to grieve his loss are his son, Charlie; and his siblings, Phil (Silvia), Becky (Michael, deceased) Russo, Mark (JoAnn), Francis, and Phyllis. He is also survived by 19 nieces and nephews whom he loved deeply, as well as a host of cousins.
Mike was a proud graduate of Mt. St. Mary’s High School (’75) and a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, his favorite time being his service in Alaska. He went on to be a certified aircraft mechanic, working for Northwest Airlines and later at Tinker AFB, where he took great pride in working on AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) planes. No matter where Mike lived, he came home to spend time with his nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. Uncle Mike was a devoted, caring and sometimes crazy presence in their lives.
The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of Ascension Via Christi St. Francis Hospital in Wichita, Kansas for their excellent care of Mike during these past several months, in particular, the care by the Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice floor during his last few days.
A Funeral Mass will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 2706 S Shartel Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73109, on August 21, 2026, at 12:00 pm. A Committal will follow on August 21, 2026, at 1:45 pm.
A Reception for Family & Friends will take place at Memorial Park Cemetery, Historic Chapel, 13400 N Kelley, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73131, on August 21, 2026, at 2:00 pm.
