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Russell Martin Braun
January 15, 1933 - January 26, 2019
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Russell Martin Braun died in his sleep on Saturday January 26th.
Russ was born in Fowler, CA on Jan 1933 to Oscar Martin and Florence Bell Braun. He graduated from Fresno State College in 1955. Russ was proud of his service in the Army, where he spent two years stationed in Germany in the late 1950’s. When he returned, Russ taught at Dorsey High School in Los Angeles, CA. He moved to Sitka, Alaska in 1959 to teach at Sheldon Jackson High School, a Presbyterian mission school. Eight years later, when the high school closed, he was offered work at Mt Edgecumbe High School, teaching art, wood shop, metal shop and mechanical drawing. His true passion was helping students from all over Alaska to make native arts after school. When the second school closed, he took early retirement. Russ then spent his time utilizing his carpentry skills, building three duplexes. He also continued to enjoy wood carving and painting. Later, he joined Alaska Pioneers and was honored to serve as the Grand President in 2008.
Russ was always active in a Presbyterian Church, giving his life to Jesus. Russ often served as a deacon or elder and lead the Mariner’s outreach organization in Sitka.
In 2009, Russ and Marty moved to Panorama Retirement Community in Lacey, WA, after their home burned down in Sitka. He enjoyed the wood shop, gardening, and The Panorama Chorus. Russ’ baritone was much needed and appreciated, as well as his ability to read music and to always hit the right notes. He belonged to the Lacey Presbyterian Church where he was also in the choir.
He is survived by his wife Martha Lou of 55 years, two sons, Bill (Sally) and David, his three sisters Joyce Smith, Grace Griffin (Richard) and Marge Eckloff (Steve), as well as many nieces and nephews.
Russ will be remembered for his smile, helpfulness, Alaskan pride, talent in the arts and love of the Lord.
Services will be held Tuesday, February 19th at 2:00 pm at Lacey Presbyterian, 3045 Carpenter Road SE, Lacey, WA 98503.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Lacey Presbyterian or Panorama Benevolent Fund.