Henry August Braun

BRAUN -Henry August Braun, prominent businessman and philanthropist, died peacefully on Tuesday at his home in Pasadena, surrounded by family and friends. He was 87. Known for his no nonsense approach to business, Henry's professional caree r started in the mid 1930s in the machine shop of his family's business, C F Braun & Co in Alhambra. Following the death of their father in 1954, Henry and his brothers assumed leadership of the company. Working together, the three brothers built upon their father's success, expanding the family business into a global leader in the engineering and construction of refineries and chemical plants. In 1980, as Vice Chairman, Henry, with his brothers, oversaw the succesful merger of the company, after which he r etired. Henry, the ultimate giver of himself and his resourses, was the first to step up to help a friend. His giving also extended to the broader community. Henry served as a Trustee, and later as Trustee Emeritus, of Huntington Hospital. He also served as a Trustee of Santa Catalina School. Numerous institutions throughout Southern California will remember Henry for his generous contributions and his heartfelt commitment to their programs. Henry, a gentle man who loved boating and was called the "Commod ore," is described by friends as adventurous and daring. He enjoyed his life to the fullest and brought his friends along for the ride. Henry touched many lives with his thoughtfulness and wonderful sense of humor, which not only entertained his friends, but also sustained a loving marriage of 61 years. After meeting her on a blind date in 1939, Henry fell in love with and soon married Virginia Bradway Braun. With Henry and Ginie, there was "never a dull moment." Henry, preceded in death by his son, Judson , is survived by his wife, Virginia Bradway Braun; his son, Henry Michael Braun; his daughters, Barbara Braun Walker and Cynthia Braun Murphy; and five grandchildren. The service for Henry will be attended only by his immediate family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Pepperdine University, USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Childrens Hospital Los Angeles, or Huntington Hospital.