PENN LAIRD, Va. - Francis Arthur Bramble, 86, of Penn Laird, Va., died on March 14, 2012, at Rockingham Memorial Hospital, Harrisonburg. Mr. Bramble was the son of the late Frank and Helen Moore Bramble. Hap served proudly in the United States Army as a World War II veteran traveling to Germany for combat. At re-enlistment he was recognized by a General there and promoted to Staff Sgt. in charge of troop movements, handling all records and supervising 17 men, until the end of the war. Shortly after, he met the love of his life, Janet Hastings Bramble. Upon completion of her training as a Registered Nurse, they married on Sept. 1, 1951, in Hurlock, Md. Many may still remember the family-owned grocery store they ran with his father-in-law, Malcom Hastings. During those years Hap was active in the American Legion Post 243, and held numerous positions in the Lions Club, both mainstays of the community. During his varied career he was, for many years, a Life Insurance Representative, making many true and lasting friends, whom he cherished. After "retiring" he accepted a job providing security and parking direction at the old RMH Hospital. Many will remember him from "the little house" on the Maple Lot, especially. He loved his job and the great group of guys, and gals he worked with only retiring to the home to care for his wife, whose health was beginning to fail. He is survived by a daughter, Deborah L. Smith of Singers Glen, Va.; a son, Robert C. Bramble of Hurlock, Md. and his wife Trudy. Also a sister, Becky Kohlerman; her husband Charles; and a brother, Charlie Bramble and wife Kay, all of Pennsylvania. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by a brother, Bill Bramble; and a grandson, Jesse Smith, who passed away at age 15. Hap will be deeply missed and was dearly loved by family and friends alike. He was well respected and admired for his unfailing positive attitude in the mist of all circumstances. His support and kindness was a true blessing to all who knew him. A memorial service will be 2 p.m., Saturday, March 31, 2012, at McGaheysville United Methodist Church with Rev. David Lagerveld officiating. Online condolences may be sent to the Bramble family by visiting www.kygers.com. Memorial gifts may be made to the Elkton Rescue Squad, McGaheysville Substation, P.O. Box 152, Elkton, VA 22827. Arrangements entrusted to the Kyger Funeral Home in Harrisonburg.