Donald Patrick Braeske

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Donald "Donny" Braeske, who departed this life on August 28, 2025 at the age of 53.
Donny and his twin sister were born at Memorial Hospital in Colorado Springs, Colorado, to his mother Judy Moanikeala. He grew up between Broomfield and Aurora before settling down in Thornton.
Donny met his soulmate, Leona, in 1992, and the couple were married in 1997. He enjoyed being a father, and he raised four children and was expecting his third grandchild.
Donny was a skilled handyman, "a jack of all trades, master of none." He also worked in the automotive industry as a transmission parts distributor for over 30 years. He enjoyed a variety of hobbies, including fishing, elk hunting, woodworking, tinkering in his garage and spending time in the San Luis Valley.
Donny will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and "Stinky," as well as a great friend to many. He leaves behind a host of family and friends to cherish his memory. He is survived by his wife Leona; children Gilbert and Halen, Devin and Gina, Dawn and Rob, Noah and Cece, and Brieona; grandchildren Emery, Quinn, Aubranae', and Baby Boy Braeske; mother-in-law Veronica; siblings Juanita and Dale; and goddaughter Ronnelle.
Services will be held on September 26, 2025 at Holy Cross Catholic Church (9371 Wigham St., Thornton, Co 80229). Rosary will be held at 10:30 a.m. with services and reception to follow. His final resting place will be in San Luis, where he enjoyed being with family, on October 4, 2025 @ 10am. San Pedro Cemetery.