Robert Ernest Braund, 61, of Kendall died Wednesday, March 26, 2014, at his home.
He was born to Don and Caroline (Siekert) Braund on April 18, 1952, in Sparta. He was baptized May 11, 1952, and confirmed May 29, 1966, at St. Matthew’s Evangelical Lutheran Church on South Ridge. He was a member of the Royall High School graduating class of 1970. He was united in marriage to Ida Beier on July 20, 1974, at St. Matthew’s.
He worked for PB Systems for several years before starting his own business. Bob and Ida started Braund Enterprises and built many, many homes in the Kendall, Wilton, Elroy and Ontario area, along with the Country Livin’ Motel in Kendall.
He was a member of the Kendall Fire Department and served as the fire chief for 20 years. He was a member of the Kendall Area Arts and Culture Organization (KAACO) and enjoyed being involved with their dinner theaters. He was a faithful member of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church and served as the Sunday school teacher.
He enjoyed golfing, hunting, especially coon hunting. Bob always enjoyed working with his hands; he was a talented carpenter and farmer. He was always willing to give anybody a chance and was always optimistic. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a loving son and brother. He will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.
In addition to his wife, Ida, of 39 years, he is survived by a daughter, Stacey Braund of Knoxville, Tenn.; a son, Cory (Megan) Braund of Kendall; his parents, Don and Caroline Braund of Kendall; a brother, Dan (Cathy) Braund of Holmen; a sister, Nancy (David) Raiten of Kendall; eight sisters-in-law, Dorothy (Dan) Stirmel, Judy Pitzer, Margaret Michalek, Barbara Stephens Garnett Burt, Patricia Beier, Debra (Darryl) Raabe and Alice (Dean) Drewitz; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, two brothers-in-law, and his close friends, Carl Schroeder and Herb Downing.
A funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 30, at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church Kendall. Pastor Steven W. Neuman will officiate. Burial will be in Glendale Cemetery.
Relatives and friends are invited to call Saturday at the church from 5-9 p.m. and on Sunday at the church from 1 p.m. until the time of service. The family requests memorials be given in Bob’s memory. The Smith-Nelson Funeral Home of Kendall is assisting the family with the arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com.
