Odell Edward Braun

A Celebration of Life for Odell "Dell" Braun will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Joseph Vertin & Sons Funeral Home in Breckenridge, Minnesota. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., at the funeral home. A luncheon will follow the service. Interment will be at St. Mary's Cemetery in Breckenridge.

Odell "Dell" Braun passed away peacefully at his home on June 23, 2026.

Born and raised in Breckenridge, Minnesota, Odell was proud to serve his country in the United States Navy as an Electronic Technician (Submarines) aboard the USS Halfbeak (SS-352). Following advanced engineering training, he and the love of his life, Pat, relocated to Ridgecrest, California, in 1960, where they built their home and life together.

Odell began a distinguished career with the Naval Weapons Center, dedicating more than 33 years to government service. His expertise, work ethic, and commitment to excellence earned him the respect of colleagues throughout his career. He retired in 1993.

Outside of his professional life, Odell was a lifelong enthusiast of steam railways. He found great joy in designing and building live steam locomotives and was a familiar face at steam meets throughout the Los Angeles area. His craftsmanship and passion for the hobby allowed him to form many lasting friendships with fellow enthusiasts.

Odell will be remembered for his dedication, ingenuity, sense of humor, and unwavering devotion to his family. He possessed a generous spirit and had a remarkable ability to brighten a room with his presence. His love of family, country, and the pursuits that brought him joy will leave a lasting legacy in the hearts of those who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 57 years, Pat Braun, and their infant daughters, Cathy and Susan. He will be laid to rest alongside them in Breckenridge, Minnesota

.Left to cherish his memory are his brother, John "Jack" Braun and family of Happy Valley, Oregon; his brother, James Braun of Moorhead, Minnesota; his nephew, Terry Braun and family of Fargo, North Dakota; his nieces, Sheryl Hauf and family of Dilworth, Minnesota, Sandy Markel and family of Fargo, North Dakota, Shelly Kadoun and family of Britton, South Dakota, and Denise Bundy and family of Happy Valley, Oregon; as well as nephews David Valentine of Virginia Beach, Virginia, and Tom Lefferts of South China, Maine, along with many other relatives and friends who will cherish his memory.

Odell's family will forever remember his wisdom, generosity, strong character, and the countless smiles he brought to those around him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

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