You will never meet a more generous, kind, thoughtful, honest, helpful, fun, chatty and organized man. He was born in Windsor to John and Florence Branch, one of 5 sons. In 1943 he enlisted in the RCAF and trained as a bomb aimer and was stationed in England. Returning to Windsor he met and married the love of his life Jean Reeves in 1949. They shared almost 70 memorable years together. He attended teachers college and became an elementary school teacher and then principal for 37 fulfilling years until he retired in 1983. He loved his job, the staff, and the students. He and mom had a strong faith and attended St. Barnabas Anglican Church until it’s closing then Emmanuel United.
He belonged to the Kiwanis Club, Curling Club, and Branch 94 Legion. They were active with Couples Club, Bridge Club and the Air Force Club where they danced the night away.
Joyful summers were spent at Sauble Beach where the Branch, Challis, and Thomas family & friends lives were enriched. He enjoyed feeding the birds, wildflowers, gardening, fishing with his buddies, wine and cheese on the patio, silly hat parties and swimming in the lake every day he could. He helped build and attended South Sauble Community Church. You could find them each night at dusk watching the sunset.
Special thanks to Sharon and Les, Delores, Josie & Tony, Mary, lifelong friends the Smiths, Veterans Affairs and all the wonderful caregivers that made his wish possible to stay in his own home till the very end with Debbie by his side.
He was a fabulous father and took us on weekend outings, tobogganing, ice skating, island picnics and exploring nature. Family values and memories were made. We will all miss him dearly as will Walmart, Home Hardware, and the WFCU gang, his favourite haunts.
He is survived by his children, Deborah Norbury (Richard), Jeffrey (Nuria) and Charmaine Reid (Jim), Brother Les and sister-in-law Sharon. Loving grandpa to 8 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his wife Jean (2019) and son Danny (1998) and brothers Kenneth, Edgar, and Victor.
Due to circumstances there will be no service at this time. A celebration of life will take place at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to Walter D. Kelly Life Celebration Centre (519-252-5711). Donations can be made to the Downtown Mission, Street Help, Amnesty International, or Greenpeace.
You lived a long, happy and full life. We will see you in every sunset joined with mom and Danny.
Love, Debbie, Jeff & Charmaine.
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