Edward Bracken Obituary

Bracken
Maj. Gen. Edward Robert
Bracken
July 29, 1937
October 14, 2024

Major General Edward Robert Bracken (USAF Retired) passed away on the 14th of October 2024 at the age of 87. Ed Bracken was born in Troy, NY on July 29, 1937, where he graduated from Catholic Central High School. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute ('59) and a Master of Business Administration from Auburn University ('71). He completed Squadron Officer School in 1965, Air Command & Staff College in 1971, and the National War College in 1976.
As a decorated veteran, he served his country with distinction for 33 years, retiring from the Air Force in 1992. As a combat fighter pilot, he amassed over 4100 total flying hours and endured 130 combat missions. During his career, he held key positions from initial command of the 493rd Tactical Fighter Squadron to that of Commander of the 48th Tactical Fighter Wing at RAF Lakenheath, United Kingdom. His last assignment was at Wright Patterson AFB, OH serving as the Chief of Staff for Air Force Logistics Command. Throughout his career, he held positions as an instructor pilot, test pilot and command pilot in the F-100, F-105, F-4, and F-111. Highlights amongst his numerous awards and decorations include the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star, and the Distinguished Service Medal.
After his retirement, "Big Ed" (as folks called him) worked as a consultant to several aviation and space companies, advising them on long-range plans, financial strategies, and business process re-engineering practices. He also worked on various studies for the Air Force and the Department of Defense. Volunteering was also important to Ed as evidenced by his countless hours devoted to numerous organizations including the Super Saber Society, Our Lady of Pines Catholic Church, sponsor for several cadets at the United States Air Force Academy, and co-founder of Black Forest Together, Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization established in response to the most devastating wildfire in Colorado's history.
Ed was preceded in death by his first wife of 52 years, Joan Bracken; his parents Michael and Myra Bracken; and his second wife Nancy Gorsich-Bracken of 11 years. He is survived by his brother Michael and his four children: Mary, Erin, Pattie, and Eddie. General Bracken's family legacy lives on though his numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at Our Lady of the Pines Catholic Church (11020 Teachout Road, Colorado Springs, CO. 80908) on June 18th 2025. Rosary will begin at 10:30 am., Mass at 11:00 am., Luncheon on campus at 12:30 pm. Interment and Military Honor Guard burial service at Eastonville Cemetery (11800-11862 Latigo Blvd., Elbert, Colorado 80106) at 3:00 pm.