Charles Alan Braunwarth

Charles Alan Braunwarth, better known as Al, passed away on Feb. 23 at the age of 88.

 

Al was born in Philadelphia, Pa. to Marion A. and Charles L. Braunwarth. His family, including his younger sister Debby, were a part of the Abington community during Al’s formative years. He graduated from Abington High School in 1954.

 

After high school, Al joined the U.S. Air Force. He served in both Italy and Spain during the Korean War.

 

After discharge from the Air Force, Al pursued a career in aerospace engineering. He studied at Penn State, where he earned his degree in aerospace engineering. He then continued his education at Drexel University, obtaining a master’s degree in engineering. Afterward Al worked for some of the biggest names in the industry during the space race, including Martin Marietta Corp. (now Lockheed Martin) and General Electric. One project he was really proud of was the help he provided on the Gemini rockets as a payload specialist.

 

In 1958, Al married Joan. They raised three children together, Alan, Deb and Don. In their spare time they enjoyed traveling and having fun with the friends they made being a part of the Denver Barbarians rugby team. In his later years, Al continued playing rugby on senior leagues and took part in multiple competitions abroad. Al was a huge sports fan. Not much could get in the way of his beloved Eagles and Flyers. Luckily he was able to watch one last Eagles win during this year’s Super Bowl.

 

Between his service in the Air Force and traveling with family and friends, Al was fortunate to make it to all seven continents.

 

Al was preceded in death by his wife Joan. He is survived by his sister Debby (Larry); children Alan (Mary), Deb (Steve) and Don; grandchildren Heather (Joel), Scott (Rosie), Justin (Michele), Kay (Carl) and Joe (Brandi); great grandchildren Sophia, Harrison, Weston, Colton, Rory and Bodi; niece Janet; nephew Rob (Angie); great nephews Robby and Samuel; and many cousins.

 

Family and friends are welcome to Al’s visitation at 10 a.m. on Friday, March 7 at Craft Funeral Home of Erdenheim, 814 Bethlehem Pike, Erdenheim, Pa. A funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. Interment will take place at 12 p.m. at Hillside Cemetery, 2556 Susquehanna Rd., Roslyn, Pa.