Ralph Ernest Branum

Ralph Ernest Branum, 95, of Jefferson City, passed away on Monday, March 9, 2015, at Heisinger Bluffs. He was born in Hartford, Conn., on October 28, 1919, the son of Rufus and Donna Ridenhour Branum, both of whom preceded him in death. He was married in Argyle, Mo., on May 15, 1946, to Marceline (Marcie) Wildhaber who survives at the home. He served in the United States Army Air Force during World War II, serving in England and France. After the war, he worked at Jefferson City Baking Company for 12 years. He owned and managed Branumís Downtown Shell Station, and later Branumís Sinclair. Ralph enjoyed fishing, hunting, horseshoes and card games. He was also a member of VFW Post #1003. Along with his wife of nearly 69 years, Ralph is survived by: two children, Richard E. Branum and wife Mary of Jefferson City and Charlotte A. (Susie) Moody and husband Mike of Anchorage, Alaska; five grandchildren, Craig M. Branum and wife Anita, Charles E. Branum and wife Christine, Ryan M. Moody and wife Melissa, Kathryn E. Moody and Sarah B. Moody; and seven great-grandchildren. Besides his parents, Ralph was preceded in death by: three brothers; and three sisters. The family will receive friends from 10-11 a.m. on Thursday, March 12, 2015, at Houser-Millard Funeral Chapel. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 12, 2015, at Houser-Millard Funeral Chapel, with Fr. Ignazio C. Medina officiating. Entombment with full military honors will be in Resurrection Mausoleum. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Samaritan Center or the donorís choice of charity. Arrangements are under the direction of Houser-Millard Funeral Directors, 2613 West Main Street, Jefferson City, MO 65109. (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com