Port Chester Village Trustee John Branca Dies After Long Illness

Port Chester village Board of Trustees member John Branca died this morning after a long illness, according to village officials.

Branca, a former Port Chester mayor who was long-involved in village politics, did not seek re-election in the March 19 Port Chester elections.

"I'm sad to announce that PC Trustee & former Mayor John Branca passed away today," Port Chester Mayor Dennis Pilla posted on Twitter and Facebook today. "What a great man. My condolences go to the Branca family."

Port Chester Trustee Luis Marino, who sits next to Branca on the dais at for board meetings at the Port Chester Village Court, said Branca cared much for the people of Port Chester.

"He was a great guy," Marino said. "He taught me a lot as we worked on the village board together."

"My prayers and condolences go out to the Branca family during their time of loss," said village Trustee Joseph Kenner. "I will remember trustee and former mayor John Branca for his common sense approach to governing and deep commitment to service."

"Rosemary and I extend our prayers and deepest sympathy to the Branca family during this difficult time," said Port Chester Mayor-Elect Neil Pagano. "I'll always remember John as a dedicated and loving family man and a tireless public servant who cared deeply for the Village of Port Chester."

King Street resident Silvio Buccieri said he an Branca were members of the Port Chester Yacht Club and together served on the club's board.

"He will surely be missed," Buccieri said.

Funeral arrangements are still being organized. Arrangements are being handled by James J Gunipero Funeral Home, 353 Westchester Ave., Port Chester, where calling hours expected to take place on Tuesday, from 4 to 9 p.m.