Michael Patrick Brauss

Obituary of Michael Patrick Brauss

September 5, 1964 – July 30, 2025

Michael Patrick Brauss, 60, of Bethlehem Twp, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025. Born on September 5, 1964, in Orange, NJ, he was the beloved son of Marion Brauss (Burkert) and the late Robert Brauss.

Mike graduated from Arthur L. Johnson High School in Clark, NJ, and went on to build a life marked by generosity, quiet strength, and an uncanny ability to fix just about anything. Known to many as a real-life MacGyver, he had a gift for solving problems-whether it was repairing vehicles, restoring equipment, or offering a hand to someone in need.

Mike worked for many years as a carpenter and later on a lawn technician in Ringoes, NJ. But beyond his professional life, he was a man of deep compassion and service. In December 2011, he earned a Certificate of Appreciation from the Hunterdon County Animal Response Team (CART) for his heroic efforts during Hurricane Irene, helping to rescue a stranded horse and ensure that local residents had water for their livestock in the days that followed. His dedication to animal welfare continued for years through his volunteer work with Hunterdon CART.

Together with his wife Karen, whom he married on June 29, 2005, Mike ran a nonprofit horse rescue, devoting countless hours to rehabilitating horses and ponies that had been abused, neglected, or abandoned. His love for animals was matched only by his love of the outdoors. He and Karen found joy and peace traveling to Yellowstone and other national parks, sharing a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature and its wildlife.

At home, Mike found happiness in the simple pleasures: working in his yard and garden, fixing what was broken, and spending time with family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, craftsmanship, and a heart dedicated to helping others-both two-legged and four-legged alike.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Karen Brauss; stepdaughter, Danielle; his mother, Marion Brauss; brothers Tommy, Robert, and Christopher; and his sister Lynn-Ann Naples and her husband Ralph. He is also remembered fondly by many nieces and nephews a n d his beloved dogs Thumper, Ginger, Rosie, and Sassy as well as Romeo the cat. He was predeceased by his father, Robert Brauss.

Memorial visitation for family and friends will be held on Tuesday, August 5th from 6:00 until 8:00PM at Martin Funeral Home, located at 1761 Route 31, Clinton NJ 08809. To send condolences to the family please visit www.martinfh.com. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mike's memory may be made to an animal resucue or shelter of your choice.

Mike will be deeply missed by all who had the good fortune to know him. His memory will live on in every rescued animal, every fixed tractor, and every heart he touched along the way.