Richard Branscombe

Surrounded by his wife and older daughter, Richard was received into our Lord's care on Nov 24th 2018.   He passed away after a very long, brave fight recovering from open-heart surgery. 

Richard was born and raised in Woodland, California.  He was preceded in death by his father, Angus, mother, Alice, and brother, Lee.

Richard’s memories will forever be in the hearts and minds of his wife of 51 years, Sherry, his daughters Dawn Machado and Dr. Tina Miranda, his son-in-laws Tom Machado and Mark Miranda, and his granddaughter, Kaia Machado.

Richard was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather who was always there to support his entire families’ goals, dreams, and aspirations.  His family affectionately called him “The Papa”.  He preferred calling his son-in-laws his “sons”.  His only granddaughter was the light of his life and brought him indescribable joy.

 Richard was a brilliant man and a ravenous learner.  Those who knew him, called him “The Elephant” because of his ability to remember everything.

Prior to retiring, he was employed at E&J Gallo Winery as the senior controls engineer.  During his long career of 34 years with the winery, he was a contributing inventor on a number of patents including: system and method for micro dosing, on-line carbon dioxide analyzer and analyzing method, bottle cork extractor, and method and apparatus for the automatic microbiological sampling of a liquid product.  After retiring, Richard started a tractor mowing business.  He also enjoyed teaching at local colleges. 

Richard had numerous hobbies throughout his life. He loved to build things, refurbish things and figure out how things worked.  Everything he did was with great attention to detail.  On one occasion, he spent several months refurbishing four WWII searchlights that led to the creation of a business known as Sky High Lights. Another hobby that led to a business was ceramics. For several years he poured, fired, and painted ceramic pieces which he then sold at various arts and crafts shows. Richard also enjoyed working on cars and spent time rebuilding a 1970 GTO and a 1923 T Bucket Roadster, a gift from his wife for their 40th wedding anniversary.  Richard was a lifetime member of the NRA who reloaded his own ammunition.

Richard was a passionate do-it-yourselfer and was always working on new projects.  His projects ranged from building a garage and granny flat to putting in an automated irrigation system and XXkW solar array system for his farm.

Richard’s faith in Christ was strong.  He practiced his Christian faith to the fullest.  He had a very generous heart and was always willing to give a helping hand to those in need.  He was known for his quick wit and his kind and compassionate spirit. 

A celebration of life for family and friends will be held on December 22nd, 2018 at 11 a.m. at the Escalon Presbyterian Church.  A luncheon will follow in the church's Centennial Hall.  In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in memory of Richard Branscombe to the Escalon Presbyterian building fund, 1612 1st Street, Escalon, California 95320.

Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in Me, will live even though he dies: Whoever lives and believes in Me will never die.”  John 11:25, 26