Michael D. Braun Sr.
1948 – 2009
AUBURN — Deeply beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, Michael D. Braun Sr., 61, of Rejane Avenue, Lewiston, gently departed from this life on Thanksgiving Day.

He was born Nov. 14, 1948, in Dorchester, Mass.

After graduating from Catholic Memorial High School in 1965, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and saw combat in the mountains of Vietnam through the summer of 1969. He was awarded the Navy Commendation and the Bronze Star — being honorably discharged in 1970 with the rank of Sergeant.

He earned his associates degree in allied health from Northeastern University in 1975, and his master’s in health-care administration from the University of New Hampshire in 1986. His career in health care began at Carney Hospital in Dorchester, Mass. He then became the chief respiratory therapist, and then vice president of Ancillary Services, at Central Maine Medical Center until 1996. Before retiring in 2007, he was employed for 10 years with the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Department, ultimately as assistant jail administrator.

He was married in 1972 to his loving wife, Karen, and was gifted with sons, Michael and Timothy; daughters, Jillanne and Meaghan; and grandchildren Hannah, Wyatt and Shelby, the brightest lights in his life.

He was an avid outdoorsman, golfer, and devoted fan of the Boston Red Sox, Boston Celtics, New England Patriots, and Boston College football. His home and family were his greatest loves; and when illness befell him, he fought his final battle with pride, honor, and the defiant courage of a true hero.

He is survived by his immediate family; sisters, Barbara, Joanne, Caroline and Katherine; son-in-law, Jason; daughter-in-law, Jenna; brothers-in-law; sisters-in-law; nieces and nephews whom he cherished; and myriad friends whom he deeply touched. He was a truly special man and he will be greatly missed.

He was predeceased by his parents, Paul Sr. and Marjorie; and older brother, Paul Jr.