Ralph John Branchizio
August 10, 1934 ~ January 31, 2014
Ralph John Branchizio, Jr., age 79 of San Antonio, passed away Friday, January 31, 2014. Born in New Jersey in 1934 he came to Texas at the age 13. Ralph's first loves were his sons, his wife and grandchildren followed by with no less passion, running, sailing, art and great Italian cuisine. Ralph worked for many years in his father's famous local restaurant, Naples, until moving on to teaching Art, History and his passion in life cross-country running and coaching. He taught Art and History at Lee High School and Roosevelt High School. Eventually Ralph developed his own private group of eager runners establishing many life long friendships. Ralph found his calling in coaching and the success of each and every individual brought him great satisfaction and joy. He was awarded Coach of the Year in 1992 by the San Antonio Road Runners for his dedication and devotion to each and every runner he coached. He is survived by his wife Jeanette, son Chris, daughter-in-law Brenda, grandchildren John William, Jenna Paige and Tyler Christopher and sister-in-law Kelly Shaw. A memorial service will be held 1:00 pm, Saturday, February 8, 2014 at Unity Church of San Antonio, 8103 Broadway Suite210 San Antonio, TX. 78209. In lieu of flowers, those who desire may send memorial contributions to the Scholarship Fund for the San Antonio Road Runners. Contributions can be sent to San Antonio Road Runners at P.O. Box 12474, San Antonio, TX 78212-0474.
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I used to run with Ralph at Mack park. . 25 or so years ago he visited San Francisco and we did an early morning run from Fisherman’s Wharf’ over the Golden Gate Bridge, through The Presidio and back to The Wharf!. At the end, he wasn’t even tired. A great guy!
Rick Taylor
Sacramento CA
When I lived in S.A. I spent many Sunday mornings and Tuesday evenings with Ralph and the many other runners who relied on him to help us become better runners. He was an exceptional, caring person who always provided encouragement and support. The running community benefited greatly from his efforts. RIP Ralph knowing you made a difference in many people’s lives.
I will always remember Ralph and the good times we had running at the Alamo Heights track and McAllister Park. The social circle that was created around his running workouts was really fun. I will always appreciate what he did for us by giving his time every week. I miss those days and I will always miss Ralph.
Michael Reid
Chris . Sorry to hear about your dad. Thoughts are with you.
So sorry to hear about Ralph. The world needs more people like him. Jeanette, you and the rest of the family will be in my thoughts.
Jeanette and Branchizio family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I have heard nothing but wonderful stories and memories of Ralph. It is so wonderful that he leaves behind such a legacy. May these memories, family and friends bring you strength and comfort through this time.
With love,
Caty Broderick
Jeanette,
I’m so sorry to hear about Ralph. My thoughts are prayers are with you and your family. I wish I could be there this weekend.
Ralph was a great runner, a great coach and a great friend. His legacy will live on in the footsteps of all he knew and those he coached, and even more so in his family whom he loved dearly. I will miss him.
Mr. Branchizio was my art teacher and mentor. He helped me more than words could ever express. He was there for me as a stong leader and father figure at a time when I was lost. I will carry him in my heart forever and cherish the wisdom he shared with so many. I wish I had known sooner, if I had, I would have attended the funeral. My warmist love to all whom were close to him. He was also extremely talented. The world was a better place with him in it.