Milton Braden

Milton Stephen Braden, 72, known affectionately to friends and family as Steve, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at the Meramec Nursing Center in Sullivan, MO. Born on August 8, 1953, in Lebanon, IN, to Harold Sr. and Minnie (Wolf) Braden, Steve's early years were spent in the heart of Missouri where he cultivated a life of service, family, and passion for mechanics. A proud graduate of Normandy High School in 1972, Steve's commitment to his country was evident as he joined the US Marines shortly after graduation, serving in Vietnam until his honorable discharge in 1976.

Steve's personal life was marked by a profound love story when he married Alice Prytle in 1982. Their union was blessed with a daughter, Pauline, whom Steve lovingly adopted, and later, a son, Samuel. The family made their home in the Normandy/Cool Valley region of St. Louis County, where they shared many cherished moments. Steve's professional life was equally stable and fulfilling; he began by driving trucks for a brief period before finding his calling with Save-A-Lot Foods. His dedication to the company was unwavering, and he spent over three decades working in their warehouses before retiring in 2013.

The loss of his beloved wife, Alice, in 2011, was a profound sorrow for Steve, yet he found solace in the closeness of his family. He relocated to Bourbon, MO, to be near his son, Samuel, and eventually settled in Sullivan. In his later years, he moved to Washington, MO, to be closer to his daughter, Pauline, ensuring that the familial bonds remained strong.

Steve's interests were as vibrant as his personality. He had an enduring love for automobiles and motorcycles, and anything with an engine captured his imagination. His hands were rarely still, as he enjoyed tinkering with and repairing motors, always eager to take on a new mechanical challenge. Car shows were a favorite pastime, where he could indulge in his passion and share it with like-minded enthusiasts. Steve also found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as watching Westerns and embarking on various fix-it projects, showcasing his handy nature.

Steve is survived by his children, Pauline Spaulding and husband, Brandon of Washington, MO and Samuel Braden and wife, Amanda of Sullivan, MO; his grandchildren: Zach, Devon, & MacKenzie; two brothers: Logan Braden and wife, Karen of Arnold, MO and Mike Braden of Edwardsville, IL; three sisters: Linda Nelson of Edwardsville, IL, Cindy Schmitt and husband, Bobby of Belleville, IL, and April Steinke and husband, Michael of Smithville, MO; and numerous other nieces, nephews and relatives.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Alice; his parents, Harold and Minnie Braden; two brothers, Gary Braden and Harold Braden, Jr.; and a sister, Sonja Haskins.

No services are planned at this time. Cremation has taken place.

Friends may send their online condolences to Steve's family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com

All arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan, MO.