Obituary published on Legacy.com by Benton-Glunt & Tapp Funeral Home on Apr. 16, 2025.
David Brauer, 74, of
Henderson, KY, passed away on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, IN.
Born and raised in Johnson City, NY, David graduated from Johnson City High School, where he excelled in football and baseball. He earned a Bachelor of Science and a PhD in biology from Binghamton University, laying the foundation for a successful academic career. David began his career as a professor at SUNY Geneseo, where he taught for five years, and later held a professorship at the University of Kansas. In 1984, he transitioned to
Henderson, KY, to teach biology at Henderson Community College for five years. He went on to serve as the Dean of Academic Affairs at the college for 25 years, leaving an enduring legacy of leadership and dedication. He retired in 2014 after 30 years of service to the college.
Beyond his career, David was involved in his community, including his volunteer work with the Henderson Lions Club and the United Way of Henderson, where he was honored with the Gordon B. Tittle Award. He was a devoted golfer, regularly playing at the Henderson Country Club with his special foursome and many friends. He also found great pleasure in gardening, a passion he inherited from his father. David was known for his exceptional green thumb and cultivated a stunning garden of flowers and trees, which he generously shared with those around him.
David's passion for sports was evident, and he especially cheered for the New York Giants, Yankees, Rangers, and UK basketball. Dave and Kathy were enthusiastic travelers, always seeking opportunities to explore. Dave took charge of planning their trips, often with the goal of seeing their favorite sports teams, attending Springsteen concerts, and experiencing a variety of places both in the United States and internationally.
David was preceded in death by his parents, John and Erdine Brauer, and his brothers, Bruce Hayes and John Brauer.
He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Kathleen Brauer of
Henderson, KY; his sister, Barbara Baltz of Winter Haven, FL; his brother, Eric Brauer (Gay) of Kirkville, NY; his sisters-in-law, Carolyn Hayes of Murrells Inlet, SC, and Patricia Brauer of Endicott, NY; his brother-in-law, Joseph David (Angela) of Lakeland, FL; his special niece and nephew, Lisa Blanton of Lehigh Acres, FL, and Patrick David (Dorothy) of Mobile, AL; and numerous other nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
A celebration of David's life will be held at a later date.Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Cure PSP, 325 Hudson St. 4th Floor, New York, NY, 10013 or any environmental charity or animal shelter of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to Benton-Glunt & Tapp Funeral Home, A Life Celebration® Home. Please visit www.bentongluntandtappfuneralhome.com to share memories and words of comfort with David's family.