Mal Branch grew up in Chicago, Illinois and always wanted to follow in his father's steps as a Naval aviator. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin, he pursued his dream. After nineteen years of service on the West Coast, his Navy career took a twist when he was accepted into the Navy’s Nuclear Power Program where he learned to operate a nuclear power plant. He joined the U.S.S. George Washington, which was then under construction, as the executive commander. After a stint on the U.S. flagship U.S.S. Whitney, Mal returned to the U.S.S George Washington as its commanding officer. After an illustrious U. S. Navy career, Mal had several interesting jobs including as the Executive Director of Virginia Ship Repair.
Mal was active in the community serving as the chairman of Norfolk International Airport and served on several boards including the American Red Cross and the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce. He joined our Rotary Club in 2002 and was a PHF + 8. He loved to sing “Sing Rotarians” which is to the tune of “On Wisconsin!”
Mal and his wife, Nancy, loved to travel and he fulfilled his dream of visiting all seven continents when they went to Antarctica.
Mal’s funeral will be at Christ & St. Luke’s Church on Saturday, November 5 at 2 p.m.