Donald Michael Braendle

Donald (Donny) Michael Braendle May 1, 1952 - May 2, 2011 Don passed away on May 2,2011 in Boise, ID after a courageous battle with cancer. Don was born to Mary A. and K Whitney Braendle on May 1, 1952 in Havana,lL. After his father passed away, his mother moved his family to Boise. Don attended Sacred Heart, Bishop Kelly, and Boise High School. He was trained to be a medic in the Air Force. He married Kristina Priest in 1978 and they had a son together, Glen Whitney Braendle, in 1983. They were later divorced. Don was a master carpenter. He did construction work ranging from re-modeling to new home and commercial construction. He enjoyed creating and transforming "something from nothing." Don was an avid reader and loved horses, but his true passions were outdoor activities. Throughout his life, his favorite past times included water and cross-country skiing, hiking, fishing/camping, and most especially bird hunting. Don always had a faithful Labrador at his side. Don will always be remembered for his unique quick wit, humor and that very special distinctive smile/grin, which allowed him into the world of so many friends and family. Don had a special relationship with each of his family members. His genuine personality invited many wonderful friends into his life wherever he happened to be, whatever he happened to be doing. He had an extraordinary way with people from all walks of life. He truly accepted people for who they were, unconditionally. This was Don's gift to his friends. He would literally give a friend his last dime or the shirt off his back. 'Things" were not important to Don, but people were. He was deeply loved by so many friends and family. Laurie Ann West was Don's life partner and best friend for 16 years. They moved to Rupert in July 2005, where they truly loved living in a small town. They made many lasting friendships. On March 26, 2011 Laurie became Don's beloved wife. Don is survived by his wife Laurie Braendle, his son Glen Braendle and Glen's mother Kristina Priest, 4 step-children: Stephanie West, Jessica West-Craig (Donald), Adrianne West, Emory West III, and 12 beautiful grandchildren, 3 sisters: Frances Reichert (Rick), Ann Frei (Dave), Carol Daley, 5 brothers: Ken and Jim Braendle, Mike (Janelle), Chris and Sam Briggs, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father K Whitney Braendle, his mother Mary A. Briggs and his step-father Lynden Wesley Briggs. The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at the VA Hospital: Oncology, 2MS and CLC. Their kindness, care, humor and support will never be forgotten. There will be a private service at the VA Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Aclesia Funeral Home. At a later date, there will be a Tree Planting Ceremony in Rupert in honor of Don.