Obituary for Hernani 'Ernie' J. Branco (Guest book)

Message from Robert Tocci

December 23, 2013 11:15 PM

Dear Branco Family,
Ernie was my colleague and supervisor at Brockton High. Tiffany was a student in one of my English classes. On occasion, I saw Jordan in Ernie's office. I will never forget his welcoming smile, generous spirit, and his willingness to help others. Ernie's ego was never on parade. He knew how challenging our job was and he supported us teachers. I will always be grateful to him for that. His wave and greeting, "How are ya Bobby?" was genuine. He was the real deal.

I send my heartfelt condolences to the entire family.

Rob Tocci

Message from Greg Massotti

December 20, 2013 8:35 AM

My deepest sympathies to the Branco family for your loss. Coach Branco and his soccer program at Stonehill were a wonderful chapter in my life and my memories of those times are great. Thanks "coach" for being such an important part of my life. You will be missed a great deal....

Blessings,
Greg Massotti

Message from Christopher Jermaine Lopes

December 17, 2013 12:54 AM

Dear Branco Family,

I am sorry to hear of the great loss, my condolences go out to your entire family. Mr. Branco was an amazing man that helped me throughout my entire career in Brockton High. I had the luxury of having Paul Branco as a teacher as well. Mr. Branco (Hernani) helped me make very good decisions in high school and kept me out of trouble which led to a full athletic scholarship to UConn with his son Jordan. He loved his Cape Verdean and Portuguese people. I appreciate everything LOVE YOU! STAY STRONG!

-CJ

Message from Rens and Joan Hayes

December 16, 2013 1:09 PM

Our deepest condolences to the Branco family. Ernie was a great man who will be truly missed.

Message from Ed Sylvia and family

December 16, 2013 1:04 PM

I met Ernie many years ago and played soccer with him at the YMCA. He was also a great friend when my children where at Brockton High, he would keep my sons in line. Words cannot describe the kind of person he was. Ernie will be missed by many and remembered by all who had the pleasure of meeting him. Rest in peace dear friend till we meet again. Our deepest sympathy to his family.

Message from Alberto & Claudia Barbosa-Alves Family

December 15, 2013 10:41 PM

It is hard and difficult to let go and say good bye, to such a wonderful and a phenomenal human being every way you look at like Ernie Bronco!!! But his powerful message will stay with us and will always and continue to lead and motivate us all forever! …Jen, Jordan, Tiffany & Morgan, although it is impossible to see beyond your pain, but may the blessings of God be upon you all, may its essence illuminate your heart, now and forever!!....Our thoughts and prayers are with you all, today tomorrow and always!!!!!!

Message from mike checca

December 15, 2013 6:43 PM

Sorry for your loss. Ernie was a great guy in and out of soccer. I learned alot from talking with him and will miss him at all the revs games. He was the best one to give referee advice. Gonna miss you buddy

Message from Fred and Irene Pereira

December 15, 2013 1:49 PM

Dear Jen, Jordan, Tiffany and Morgan,
All who knew Ernie, even for a brief time, knew he was SPECIAL. His hugs were genuine, his smile contagious and his words were spoken with sincerity and TRUTH. There are no words or hugs that can wipe away your pain and loss at this time. I wish there were. You are in our prayers daily. May God grant you comfort through the love and prayers of all who care about you...and peace to help you endure the days and nights ahead.
Love,
Fred and Irene (part of your SNHU Family)

Message from Fred Szostak

December 15, 2013 12:48 PM

Our condolences to the Branco family. Met Ernie just a couple of years ago through Cape Cod Women's Summer soccer league where our daughter played with Morgan. Great great man to talk with during games whether it was about soccer or not. RIP Mr. Branco

Fred, Peg and Jenna Szostak

Message from Janice Berry

December 15, 2013 11:48 AM

Dear Lisa & Paul,

I heard of this tragedy on the Boston news station. I am so sorry for your loss and God Bless the entire family.
Janice Berry

Message from Helio and Nancy Chaves and fam

December 14, 2013 10:44 PM

How our heart aches with yours at this time. Life will not ever be the same......so many precious memories of Ern we will hold on to. We heard it once said, "the true barometer of a sucessful man is, the contentment of his wife and the character of his children." Ernie was so incredibly successful! Love you all so much!

Message from Ruth Evee

December 14, 2013 5:17 PM

My heart is heavy and my prayers go out to the Branco family. What a "cool" and funny guy....we shared many many laughs! Ernie wasn't just a colleague, he was a friend and mentor that cared and always had time to give me advice. I am sad of our loss but Blessed to have known him.

Message from Peter Norton

December 14, 2013 4:37 PM

I was saddened to here of Ernie's passing. He was a good friend over the years thru soccer and golf. A wonderful person who always seemed to be smiling!

Message from Greg Couch

December 14, 2013 12:20 PM

SWEET AND WARM REMEMBRANCE TABLE ARRANGEMENT was sent by The Couch's .
Rest In Peace Ernie. You will be greatly missed. Thank you for touching so many lives in such a positive way. We will always remember you and think of you every time we see a soccer field or event. We are thankful for the time we did have with you and all the memories. Now let the heavens experience soccer like they've never have before. The thunder in the sky will tells us when you have kicked the ball.

Message from Larry, Michelle and Victoria Hassan

December 14, 2013 12:18 PM

We are so sorry for the loss of your loved one. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God bless.

Message from Joao Quintino

December 14, 2013 11:34 AM

We are very saddened to hear of Hernani's passing. Our deepest condolences to all family member.
Quintino's from Lisbon and Boston

Message from Jim Milbery

December 14, 2013 9:50 AM

So sorry for your loss. Some of my best days were spent training with Ernie at the USSD on Montello street. Still remember Ernie's laugh when he found out at his wedding that I already knew Jennifer -- she was at pitcher for Crowley's Movers - striking out all of us Town Taxi boys. He will be greatly missed.

Message from The Stoker Family

December 14, 2013 7:47 AM

Dear Jen, Jordan, Tiffany and Morgan. We have so many wonderful memories of Ernie on the sidelines and in our post game and traveling soccer events over the years. His optimism, encouragement to the players and his passion for the game made such an incredible impact on us all. We are so sorry and are keeping you close to our hearts.

Message from Francine Fisher

December 13, 2013 10:40 PM

My deepest sympathy to the Branco family. Ernie left an impression on everyone he met. He will be truly missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with you all
Fran Fisher (Vasialka)

Message from Susan (Burgess) Carlucci

December 13, 2013 8:33 PM

Branco friends & family- I am so very sorry for your loss. Mr. Branco was truly an exceptional man. I know I don't have to tell you how wonderful he was, as I am sure you know better than anyone. But I would love for you to know how much he meant to me (any countless others.) Without him, I would have kept heading down the wrong path. He showed me I had worth when no one else believed in me. He taught me that character matters, hard work pays off, and kindness exists- Things no one in my life had ever shown me before. When everyone else had given up, Mr. Branco let me know that he never would...and so I never gave up on myself. I can't even begin to express what a special human being he is. To do so would be insulting because there are simply no words. But please allow me to thank you for sharing this wonderful man with us. He has touched so many- and will continue to do so through the people he has helped us become. God bless.

Message from Norma Richards

December 13, 2013 3:52 PM

Paul and Family
So sorry for your Loss. My Deepest Sympathy and GOD BLESS.
Met you and Ernie thru my son Scott.

Message from Marissa Pitts

December 13, 2013 3:37 PM

My friend Paul Branco and Family,

I am sorry for your loss. I remember seeing Ernie in the Red Cafeteria. He said hello to me. As a BHS alumni, I will never forget his face and how he represented BHS.

Message from Tony, Jo-ann, Ange and Ally Luongo

December 13, 2013 2:40 PM

Jen, Tiffany, Jordan, Morgan and the Branco
family. I'm so glad I saw Ernie at the Feehan and Brockton game 5 weeks ago.
He gave me a warm embracing bear hug as he always did. I'm finding it so hard to believe he is gone. We shared a love and passion for the game of soccer. We will miss him very much. Ange and Ally will never forget all he shared with them about soccer and life. We will keep Ernie and all of you in our prayers.
The Luongo family

Message from Steven Wallis

December 13, 2013 10:49 AM

GRANDMA'S GARDEN TABLE BASKET was sent by Saint Anselm College Women's Soccer .

Message from Tami & Randy Ellis

December 12, 2013 11:45 PM

Jen, Tiffany, Jordan, Morgan and the Branco family, please know our thoughts and prayers are with you all. I will always remember Erin and his kindness shown to the new kid in town. I was new to Brockton and of course there was a soccer game going on at South Junior High. He saw me walking by the field and said hey do you want to play some soccer there is always room for one more. Not matter how many years passed in between our meeting there was always a hug, hello and how’s the family. You made a difference in many kids and adults lives you will be truly missed.

Message from Jim Barrington

December 12, 2013 11:33 PM

I'm very sorry to hear of the passing of Ernie. A great man that I've known since playing soccer with him at BSC. He taught all of us some very valuable life lessons. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts, sympathy, & prayers to the entire Branco family.

Message from Fred and Julie Nesseralla

December 12, 2013 10:18 PM

Ernie was my coach, Teammate and good friend. I am honored to say I knew him. Condolences to the entire Branco family

Message from Stacie, Brent, Chelsie, Nicolette and Deven,

December 12, 2013 9:20 PM

We are thinking of you all through this tragic time. Ernie was a great man. I always remember the times that Ernie and Steve would be on the soccer sidelines laughing hysterically. That is how I will remember him, smiling and laughing.

Message from Marissa Pitts

December 12, 2013 8:11 PM

Dear my friend Paul and his family,

Sorry for your loss. I remember Ernie as the Assistant Red Housemaster of BHS. He always said hello to me in the halls.

Marissa Pitts
Class of 2010

Message from Dianne Tavares

December 12, 2013 1:43 PM

My condolences to the Branco Family.

Message from Sousa Family

December 12, 2013 12:16 PM

Dear Branco Family ~ We are so very sorry for your loss and we send our deepest condolences. Ernie has been a friend of Ricardo's and Ricardo's brothers for many years and it was a wonderful surprise for Ricardo to cross paths again with Ernie when our daughter Olivia participated in the North Youth Soccer summer camp six summers ago. Since that time, we have happily 'bumped into' Ernie several times around town. He always had a warm smile and a fantastically contagious laugh. How very blessed we are to call him a friend. Much love to you all. ~Ricardo, Elizabeth, Olivia, Grace and Gavin Sousa

Message from Kim Giammarinaro

December 12, 2013 9:26 AM

My deepest condolences to the Branco family. I remember him from being a former Brockton High student. Mr. Branco was kind and caring towards all students and had nothing but respect for all of us. He wanted to see us all succeed. He will be greatly missed by many.

Message from Augie Chaves and Family

December 11, 2013 11:18 PM

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Branco family at this sad and difficult time. May Ernie Rest in Peace.

Message from mr.and mrs. angelo conte and family

December 11, 2013 10:41 PM

I don't even know where to begin to tell you what an amazing person Ernie was, we met many years ago. His loving personality, his willingness to help anybody at any time. When someone says that they have a huge heart to me there is only one person that comes to mind, its Ernie. We want to express our condolences to his wife Jen and his children Tiffany, Jordon, and Morgan. He will always have a special place in our hearts. We will miss you. R.I.P.

Angelo, Darlene, Giuliano, and Simona Conte

Message from The Sproules Family

December 11, 2013 6:17 PM

Our deepest and heartfelt sympathies go out to the Branco family. Ernie was such a great friend who did so much for all of us. His strength, kindness and words of wisdom were always appreciated. We cannot express in words how much he meant to us. We shall miss him dearly. May God bless you and give you strength. We love you Ernie. Rest in peace dear friend.

Message from Kristin Donovan Stork

December 11, 2013 5:09 PM

I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Ernie from the "Get Ready" days at Brockton high when he instructed soccer and then later when he worked with my dad as assistant house master. I was always greated by a smile. My thoughts and prayers are with the Branco family.

Message from Ana Moniz

December 11, 2013 2:52 PM

A GARDEN PATH was sent by Blackhawks Soccer Club.
Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts. With sincere sympathy, Blackhawks Soccer Club

Message from Ed Peterson

December 11, 2013 1:57 PM

I first met Ernie & Paul when we were at Huntington School on Warren Ave in the Campello Section of Brockton in the early 60's. They had just arrived in the country from the Azores. When they came to school they couldn't speak very much English, that didn't stop them from succeeding. They were so positive and friendly you could help but like them. Ernie never forgot you he always greeted you with a big handshake and a hug. He was one of the most positive and friendly people I ever met. He will be sorely missed. R.I.P.

Message from Elaine Hammond

December 11, 2013 1:25 PM

My deepest sympathy to Ernie's family. One of my best experiences in the world of soccer was meeting Ernie. He was such a compassion person and I know that my family and my life are better because of Ernie. He coached my son ,Jason at Stonehill and was always so kind to all my family members especially after I lost my husband and Jason his father. My thoughts are with his family at this sad time.

Message from Jeff Agoos and Alfonso Mondelo

December 11, 2013 12:23 PM

We were very sorry to hear about the loss of Ernie Branco. Ernie was well respected and significantly contributed to the success of officiating in MLS. He will be missed.

Message from Nelson Almada and family

December 11, 2013 12:08 PM

Our most deapest sympathies to the Branco family and our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Hernie was a great man that has touched so many lives, and will be sorely missed but never forgotten.

God bless!

Nelson, Angie, Juliana, and Carina Almada

Message from Clark Family

December 11, 2013 11:28 AM

Sending our deepest sympathy to the entire Branco family. Knowing Ernie kindness spread to so many is a very peaceful experience. A very special man who I knew was always watching over my daughter while she worked in the Azure office at BHS. Will miss the smile, and the laugh! RIP Ernie!!!

Message from Elizabeth Muia

December 11, 2013 11:15 AM

To the Branco Family - Please accept my deepest condolences for the loss of Hernani. I only met him once or twice when I was around 9 years old when my family visited one summer. I can remember sitting at Tia Armanda kitchen table one morning with Paul and Hernani; who were only teenagers at the time, and thinking..."man can these guys eat!" I remember him very much as others have described him...happy and fun loving. Please know that I am thinking of you all at this time. Anthony & Elizabeth Muia (Betta Figueiredo) and family.

Message from Jose & Maria Figueiredo and Family

December 11, 2013 10:56 AM

To my Tia Armanda and the entire Branco Family - So very sorry to hear about your loss. May you find comfort in each other during this difficult time. Our thoughts, prayers and love go out to you.

Message from The Silver Family

December 11, 2013 10:14 AM

Sending our prayers and hoping you'll find peace in the loving memories you have made. May God bless you during this difficult time.

Message from Western Mass Pioneers

December 11, 2013 10:13 AM

Our condolences to the Branco family. Ernie was a genuine guy who appreciated those he came in contact with. We are glad we had the opportunity to spend time with the Ernie and the Branco family here in Ludlow.

Message from Michele (Russell) Harrington

December 11, 2013 10:01 AM

I spent many nights running around the hallways of South Jr High in the late 70's... My father, Michael W Russell, ran the Community Schools Program and Ernie worked along side him. My sisters and I got to know Ernie through this program, participating in various sports and classed offered. He was a kind,sweet and funny guy with a love for life and all things soccer. We would run into each other frequently on the soccer fields as my children play... there was always a big hug and kiss...remembering the good old days. My heart goes out to his wife, children and his family. It's a sad tragic loss that leaves many speechless, he'll truly be missed and never forgotten.

Message from Fred Awon

December 11, 2013 9:48 AM

Dear Branco Family. I'd like to extend my deepest sympathy for your loss. Ernie was a great man and know that he had affected many lives in such a positive way in the more than 35 years I have known him. He will forever always be remembered now in our memories and in our hearts. My warmest and deepest condolences to you and your family during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless!

Message from Jack Sullivan

December 11, 2013 9:36 AM

R.I.P. Ernie and my sympathies to the whole family. Ernie was one of the good guys. He and Paul were a bit older but we grew up Campello boys back when it was a tight neighborhood and everyone knew each other. Ernie treated everyone with the same respect. He'll be missed.

Message from Terri Bishop kuskoski

December 11, 2013 8:05 AM

My prayers go out to Ernie's family I have known ernie since I was a kid growing up on West Chestnut St. And having him as a teacher at south He was a great guy always smiling.

Message from gwen

December 11, 2013 7:59 AM

Please accept my sincerest sympathy. I know all too well the feeling of losing a loved one too soon because I have been there on several occasions. At the same time, I have been comforted by the words of Jesus Christ who promised a resurrection of all those in the memorial tombs. (John 5:28,29). I hope that this promise can bring you a measure of comfort as well.

Message from The Kearns Family - Norton, MA

December 11, 2013 7:16 AM

Dear Branco Family - We are so very sorry for your loss in this tragic accident. Ernie was a extraordinary man who will be forever remembered for his wonderful ways. Our deepest condolences during this extremely difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Message from Dennis and Evelyn Howard

December 11, 2013 7:13 AM

Our deepest sympathies go out to the Branco family. Anyone who met Ernie liked him. He was a friendly,passionate man. Our prayers are with his family.

Message from George Blanche

December 10, 2013 11:52 PM

Ernie was a great teacher and mentor. When I was a student @ South Jr High back in the late 70s , he was just getting into the field.He was in the business of making a difference in the life of any student that he ever met.He must have taught thousands of kids in the time that he was a teacher......but he could remember who I was , like i was still in the classroom. When we look back now, I can remember him saying in class ,"just call me Ernie" I can see why ........ He was 24 yrs old teaching 12 yr olds about life ....like he was your brother. On some level he was. We all love you and will be deeply missed.

Message from Chris Borge

December 10, 2013 11:29 PM

My deepest sympathy to the Branco family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Ernie was one of the primary reasons I went to Stonehill. He was not only a special coach who taught me so much about soccer, he was a great friend and mentor who taught me even more about life. Ernie you will truly be missed. May god bless you. Rest in peace.

Chris Borge (Stonehill - Class of 1990)

Message from Brenda (Horsman) Busch

December 10, 2013 11:08 PM

Sending my deepest sympathy to the Branco family.....A great man was lost who dedicated his life to the children of Brockton. Growing up Ernie and his brother, Paul, were always organizing youth soccer for the kids as well as volunteering for the community school program that kept SJH open so that the kids had a place to hang out at night. There isn't a native of Brockton whose life was not touched by this man in some way. Thank you for your commitment to the children of Brockton. RIP Ernie Branco....your life was ended much too soon.

Message from Jack Gannon

December 10, 2013 11:07 PM

My deepest sympathy to the Branco family. Ernie was such a wonderful friend to me and my family. His love for his family, his caring about others and his passion for life was clearly evident in all he said and did.

Message from Coach Pontes

December 10, 2013 11:05 PM

My sincere condolences to Jen, Tiffany, Jordan, Morgan and the Branco family. I hadn't seen Ernie for several years then suddenly ran into him in Mansfield just a few days before the tragic accident. First thing he did was give me one of his famous bear hugs. Its difficult to get my mind around the fact he is gone. We shared a love and passion for the game of soccer. I learned so much from him in many ways. He will be missed by all who knew him and shared his loving friendship.

Message from Dawn Terry

December 10, 2013 9:35 PM

Ernie set a fabulous example on how to truly live, love and enjoy life and the people that you meet along the way. Ernie was a very bright light who touched all who had the pleasure of being in his presence. I am wishing Jen, Tiffany, Jordan & Morgan peace and strength. <3

Message from Juliette and Bob Coughlin

December 10, 2013 9:07 PM

We are so sorry for your loss. We will miss Ernie. God bless your family.

Message from Cathy J

December 10, 2013 9:05 PM

I'll always remember the genuine smile and conversations with Ernie! His care and concern for all students was remarkable! Prayer for peace and strength goes out to the Branco family, as they go through difficult time!

Message from Christine Alvares

December 10, 2013 8:48 PM

Jen & family; I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Message from George Vergara and Family

December 10, 2013 8:37 PM

I am terribly saddened by the loss of Ernie Branco. My condolences to the family.
I was a MLS referee for many years and I loved coming to NE because of Ernie. He took care of ALL the referees of the MLS.

I live in Virginia and spoke to Ernie on occasion about soccer and life.
I know I will miss him.

Message from Bill Dittmar

December 10, 2013 8:30 PM

One of the greatest men I have met in all my years of soccer. His legacy will live on through all his children and Jen as well as so many he has touched in and outside the soccer community. We love you Ernie. I have no doubt that God has welcomed you into heaven.

Message from Paul & Teresa Cabrinha

December 10, 2013 7:58 PM

Our Deepest Condolences to the Branco Family. Ernie touched so many lives and left many great impressions in our hearts! His wonderful smile and sincere hugs will sadly be missed. May God comfort you through such a difficult time and that your memories with him console you.

"God will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or pain." (Revelation 21:4)

May you Rest in Peace, Dear Friend,
Paul, Teresa & Sara Cabrinha

Message from John M. Burke and Family

December 10, 2013 7:45 PM

Our deepest sympathies to you in this most trying time. May God Bless you.

Message from Donn Heikkila

December 10, 2013 7:06 PM

Dear Branco Family,

My sincerest condolences. Ernie was gentleman and sportsman. He will be sorely missed. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Donn

Message from Ryan Feeney

December 10, 2013 5:35 PM

So sorry to hear. My deepest condolences to the Branco family. (Stonehill Class of 1992)

Message from Tom Stagliano

December 10, 2013 5:35 PM

My heartfelt sympathies to the Branco family.
I refereed with and trained with Ernie as a soccer referee.
However, I also had many enjoyable times refereeing Ernie's Stonehill College men's soccer teams.   Ernie was a passionate soccer coach and always trying to teach life's values to his players.   Ernie was a wonderful person.

Message from Daniel A. Negalha

December 10, 2013 4:14 PM

My deepest sympathy to you. Ernie touched our hearts. He's is missed very much.

"There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart." ~Gandhi

Danny

Message from Tiffani

December 10, 2013 4:12 PM

As being a former BHS student, knowing Mr. Branco had to be one of the best expierence's of my BHS memories. He was one of the kindest person's I knew. I will always hold him in my thoughts and prayers.

Message from Larry and Debbie Mangone

December 10, 2013 3:39 PM

It is hard to belief that someone so full of life is no longer with us, but we pray that Ernie is in a better place and we will see him again. Our hearts go out to Jennifer and his family, we know how much he will be missed. Ernie
brought joy and laughter into many people's life's, we thank God we had the pleasure of knowing him.

Message from Shaynah Barnes

December 10, 2013 3:27 PM

Mr. Bronco will be so missed in the city. He really knew what kids needed and wanted and everyone loved him. Ill also never forget the hot air balloon story. We love you Mr. Bronco

Message from Jack Murray

December 10, 2013 2:56 PM

I am very sorry for your loss. Ernie was a great guy. If it was not for meeting Ernie through my father and refereeing I cannot imagine where u would be in life right now. Ernie is the reason I ended up at Stonehill.

Message from John Hamre

December 10, 2013 2:51 PM

TRADITION AND SPLENDOR was sent by John Hamre.
With Deepest Sympathy. John Hamre (Stonehill Class 1990)

Message from Glen Lang

December 10, 2013 1:04 PM

Our deepest condolences to all. What a remarkable man to have known.
Glen and Eva Lang

Message from Veneranda Chaves Rodriguez

December 10, 2013 12:04 PM

We are deeply sorry to hear about the death of our cousin Ernie. We wish his family peace, comfort and courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts. May God be with all of you and may Ernie rest in peace in God's kingdom.

Warm Regards,
Veneranda Chaves Rodriguez & Family

Hernani "Ernie" J. Branco