Stanley Charles Braden

CHARLESTON, IL – Stanley Charles Braden, age 63 of Charleston, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, June 20, 2018 at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center.  Visitation will be held from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 24, 2018 at Adams Funeral Chapel in Charleston.  Masonic Services conducted by members and guests of Charleston Masonic Lodge #35 A.F. & A.M. will begin at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday at the funeral chapel followed by a Memorial Service with Pastor Scott Sims officiating.  Inurnment will be at a later date in Roselawn Cemetery, Charleston.  It is requested that gifts in his honor be made to the Corn Belt Shrine Club which may be left at the visitation or service or mailed in care of Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Dr., Charleston, IL 61920.

Stan was born October 27, 1954 in Charleston, Illinois, the son of the late Charles Leonard and Isobel (Keneipp) Braden.  He married Dianne E. “Dee” Allen on August 1, 1976 in Decatur, Illinois and they would have soon celebrated 42 years of marriage.  In addition to his loving and devoted wife Dee, he is survived by his daughter, Meg Taylor and her husband Luke of Oakland, Illinois, three grandchildren whom he adored, Gwendalynn, Isabella and Beckett Taylor; a sister, Carla Spicer Mark and husband Chuck of Charleston; and a niece, Rachel Spindler and husband Blake.

Stan was a 1972 graduate of Charleston High School and furthered his education at Eastern Illinois University where he received both his Bachelors and Masters degrees.  In 1978 he partnered with Mike Day and purchased the establishment known as Mike and Stans, which remains a successful business today.

Stan possessed a servant’s heart which was nourished by his faith.  His desire to help others was evident through his devotion and dedication as a member of Salisbury Church, a life member of Charleston Masonic Lodge #35 A.F. & A.M., and as a huge supporter, member and past president of the Corn Belt Shrine Club.  Stan also carried a life membership in the NRA.

Stan was an outdoorsman often enjoying hobbies such as fishing, hunting, shooting and playing a round of golf.  He was also a fan of harness racing and trained, groomed and raced Standardbred horses.  As a gourmet chef his cooking skills could be described as outstanding.  Many were blessed by his friendship but it was Stan’s family who received the blessing of his love and devotion as he cherished them as his number one priority in life.  He was known as “Pappy” to his grandchildren who were his pride and joy.  All who knew him will hold dear their many fond and loving memories.