Fred J. Braun

Fred Joseph Braun: A Life Built for Performance

Fred Joseph Braun of Country Club Hills, born on June 19, 1936 in Chicago, Illinois, passed peacefully on Friday, November 15, 2024, at the age of 88. Much like a classic American drag racing car, Fred was built for power, endurance, and performance – a life marked by hard work, dedication, and a roaring passion for his family and hobbies.

Early Chassis and Engine:

Fred's framework was forged in Chicago as the youngest of six children born to Thomas and Magdalene Braun. Beloved brother of the late Thomas (late Pauline) Braun; late John Braun, PFC., late James (late Joan) Braun, late Marian (late John) Lukshas, and late infant sister. This early foundation instilled in him the values of resilience and teamwork, traits that served him well throughout his life. He received his initial "tune-up" in the US Army, where he served his country with honor, including a tour of duty in South Korea.

High-Performance Drive Train:

Fred's professional life was defined by his over 40-year tenure at Joanna Western Mills. As a maintenance manager, he was the chief mechanic, ensuring the smooth operation of the window shade factory's complex machinery. This role showcased his exceptional problem-solving skills and his ability to keep everything running at peak efficiency.

Custom Modifications and Racing Spirit:

Beyond his professional life, Fred possessed a true gearhead spirit. He hand-built his own drag racing car, a testament to his mechanical prowess and love for speed. This "custom build" carried him to victory on the national level on racetracks across Illinois, Indiana, and Florida, leaving competitors in his dust.

Fueling System: Faith and Family:

Fred's primary fuel source was the love of his family. His engine ran strongest with the late Linda, his wife of 50+ years, by his side. Together, they raised a crew of six children, whom Fred supported tirelessly. Jennifer (Michael) Braun-Denton, Lynn Braun, John Braun, late Fred (late Helen) Braun, Kathrynne (late Glen) Skonicki and Valerie (Neal Zokan) Braun.  The grandfather of nine - Sandra (Nick) Sturgeon, Christina Denton, Michael Denton, Ashley Denton, Cameron (Keyauri Richardson) Braun, Cameree Braun, Angela Skonicki, Katy Skonicki and David Skonicki. Great-grandfather of Sonia Sturgeon, Charlotte Sturgeon, Annette Sturgeon, Gabriel Sturgeon, Cyaire Braun, and Cyron Braun. He volunteered as a football and baseball coach, a Cub Scout leader, and a constant source of encouragement.

Auxiliary Power Units:

Never one to idle, Fred kept his life running with multiple "auxiliary power units." He delivered Star newspapers and Chicago Tribunes, served as a pizza delivery man, a Country Club Hills community service officer, a water meter reader, a shoe stocker at Sears, and a porter at Manheim Chicago. These various roles demonstrated his unwavering work ethic and his commitment to providing for his family.

Spiritual Ignition:

Fred's "spiritual ignition" was his Catholic faith. A long-time member of St. Emeric Parish in Country Club Hills, and later St. John Neumann Parish in Homewood, his faith provided the spark that kept him running smoothly even through life's challenges.

Final Lap:

Fred Joseph Braun lived a life of purpose, driven by faith, family, and a passion for all things mechanical. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude that will continue to inspire those who know him. He crossed the finish line with gratitude for the race well run.

Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. -11 a.m. Saturday, November 23, 2024 at Tews & Ryan Funeral Home, 18230 S, 18230 Dixie Hwy, Homewood, IL 60430.

Funeral Mass will be held at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, November 23, 2024 at St. John Nuemann Parish, 17951 Dixie Highway, Homewood, IL 60430.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. John Nuemann Parish in Homewood, IL, in Fred's name.