Donald Patrick Braden

Donald "Don" Patrick Braden passed away Thursday, September 15th at the age of 80. Born in Jersey City, Don was a lifelong resident of Bayonne before settling in Ormond Beach, Florida 3 years ago. After graduating Bayonne High School in 1960, Don was drafted into the United States Army where he proudly served his country to fight the war in Vietnam from 1964 to 1966. When he returned home he married his West 9th Street neighbor, Christine Berlane. The young couple lived in Bayonne where they raised their daughter, Diane. Don was an extremely hard-working man who went on to own and operate a trucking business in Jersey City for over 50 years before retiring in 2016. He was an avid Nascar fan, never missing a weekend race on TV. He loved tinkering with his RV and anything mechanical. Don was a walking map and everyone would call him for directions anywhere in the United States. He enjoyed golfing. Don was a lifetime member of the VFW. Don was predeceased by his parents John and Clara Braden. He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Christine Braden. Don is the loving father of Diane Braden Wilkowski and her husband Eric and the cherished grandfather of Ally and Katie Wilkowski. He is the devoted brother of John C. Braden and his wife Jean. Don also leaves behind many dear nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. Family and friends are invited to attend visiting hours at the Boulevard Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 1151 River Road, New Milford, NJ on Friday September 23rd from 4 pm to 8 pm. The following day a Funeral Mass will be celebrated in his memory in St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Roman Catholic Church located on Avenue C and 14th Street, Bayonne at 10 am. A private cremation will follow. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his memory to https://www.bayonnevfwpost226.com/donations.html