MICHAEL THOMAS BRAUN

Kennewick, WA

While on vacation, Mike Braun, 58, of Kennewick, WA, was fatally injured in a tour bus accident on December 26, 2010, in Aswan, Egypt. He will be remembered for his infectious smile and sense of humor; his leadership skills; his ability to repair anything; and his offer to help his friends with any task.

Mike was born May 17, 1952, to Samuel and Freda (Ramm) Braun in Ritzville, WA. Mike was proud to be a third generation German from Russia. He attended school in Odessa, WA and graduated from Odessa High School in 1970. Mike graduated from Washington State University, Cum Laude, Range Management in 1974.

He was employed as the Coordinator for the Franklin County Noxious Weed Control Board. Mike was also the Chairman of the Washington State Weed Coordinators Association. He was actively involved in his community. Mike was the current Governor of the Kennewick/ Pasco Moose Lodge #482. Mike enjoyed gardening, target shooting, traveling far and wide, attending the special events of his great nieces and nephews and attending the Odessa Deutchesfest. Mike had a great zest for life and will be missed by many friends, relatives and acquaintances.

Mike is survived by his partner of 30 years, Sue Flink; stepdaughter of his heart, Zenoby Chadwick; brother, Jerry (Mary) Braun and children, Kelly Braun and Molly (Ron) Crawford; sisterin-Law, Sharon Braun and children, Bill Braun, Steven (Mandi) Braun, and Kerry Palmer; eight great nieces and nephews; many cousins; Uncle, Howard Braun and Aunt, Marie Ramm Braun.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Samuel Braun.

Memorial Services will be held on February 19, 2011, (11:00 a.m.) at the Pasco Moose Lodge, 2617 W. Sylvester, Pasco, WA. Graveside services to be held in Odessa, WA, on May 27, 2011. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the WSU College of Agriculture, Human and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS) or to the Pasco Moose Lodge #482.