John Braun Obituary

John William Braun, age 58, of Otsego, MN, passed away on July 3, 2025 surrounded by his family. He was born on November 6, 1966, in Robbinsdale, Minnesota, to William and Portia (Peterson) Braun. He grew up in both Albertville, MN, and later in Houston, TX, where he graduated from high school. In 1985, enlisted in the United States Army.
John proudly served his country for 24 years in both the U.S. Army and the Army National Guard. His roles included Infantryman, Military Police Officer, Personal Security Officer, Unit Transport Operator, Readiness NCO, and Human Resources Specialist. His service was a deeply meaningful part of his life, and he carried out each role with pride, dedication, and honor. After his military retirement, John continued his dedication to veterans through his work at the Department of Veterans Affairs. He was also proud to serve as a member of the Wright County Reserve Unit.
In 2000, John met the love of his life, Susan Scharfetter. The two were married on May 29, 2004. Just six days later, John was deployed to Iraq, a true testament to the sacrifice he and his family made in service to our country.
John was known for his big heart and selfless nature. He would do anything for anyone, often putting others' needs before his own. His sense of humor and ability to make people laugh made him beloved by all who knew him. Above all, he cherished his family deeply and was a source of strength, loyalty, and love. John will be remembered as a man of great kindness and character.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Portia.
John is survived by his wife, Susan; children, Jan (Adam) Fournier and Tom (Tina) Bowers; grandchildren, Noah (15), Henry (15), Grant (12) and Elliot (6) Fournier and Emily (11) and Fritz (10) Bowers; father, William Braun; sister, Kassie (Ryan) Erpelding; step-brothers, Tom "Elvis", Billy (Tammy), and Chuck (Kari) Dwinnell; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Memorial Service will be held Friday, August 15, 2025 at 3:00 PM with visitation one hour prior at The Peterson Chapel, 300 Main Street North, St. Michael, MN. Interment with military honors at St. Albert's Cemetery in Albertville, MN.
Arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of St. Michael-Albertville. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com
Memorial Service will be held Friday, August 15, 2025 at 3:00 PM with visitation one hour prior to services at The Peterson Chapel, 300 Main Street North, St. Michael, MN. Inurnment at St. Albert's Catholic Cemetery, Albertville, MN.
Arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of St. Michael-Albertville. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com