Douglas Ray Braun, Sr

Douglas Ray Braun Sr., 81, of Mahomet, beloved husband and father passed away in his home at 5:15 p.m., on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.

Doug was born September 23, 1943, in Ann Arbor, MI, a son of Carl and Bernice (Cole) Braun.  

Doug was preceded in death by his parents, two older brothers, and his ex-wife.

He is survived by an older sister, Barbara of California, his wife, Mariella, three sons, and two daughters. Douglas Jr. (Kathy) of Texas, Steven (Crystal) of Texas, Dawn (Daniel) of Rantoul, Codi (Curtis) of Mahomet and Christian (Amber) of Mahomet; 13 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

Doug graduated from Ann Arbor High School in 1961. He was active in both Cub and Boy Scouts. He attended Ferris Institute College, Washtenaw Community College, as well as University of Michigan. 

Doug initially pursued a career in pathology, inspired by his experience helping his best friend’s family in their funeral home. Working there sparked his interest in the inner workings of the morgue and the study of pathology. However, he eventually decided to change direction in his education and career path, leading him to a long and accomplished career in public service.

He began as an United States Postal mail carrier before transitioning to the Federal Aviation Administration in 1966,  where he served as an air traffic controller and later as a supervisor until his retirement in 1991. He was also a proud member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Doug drove semi-trucks for a short time, worked as a route coordinator for FedEx Home, and also worked at Ace Hardware in Mahomet. He hauled grain during harvest seasons in Mansfield, IL and found great joy in driving a school bus for Mahomet-Seymour and Champaign until 2016.  

Doug’s first marriage was to Liane Dorsey, with whom he had three children: Douglas Jr., Steven, and Dawn. Later, Doug married Mariella Brandt (Zehr), and together they had two children, Codi and Christian, completing his family of five children. Doug cherished his role as a father and took great joy in watching his family grow over the years.

Doug participated in softball, and bowling leagues for the Kiwanis Club and competed in target shooting with the Detroit Police Department, earning several commendations. His love for motorcycles and boating led him to own several of each over the years. He also enjoyed fishing, golfing, visiting the gun and driving ranges with his children.   

He was a man of many talents and hobbies. He enjoyed latch hook crafting and had a deep appreciation for coin collecting, always seeking out unique and rare pieces. He had a sharp wit and a dry, sarcastic sense of humor, often keeping family and friends on their toes with his quick remarks and playful teasing. 

Doug discovered a passion for photography, earning an award for a black-and-white portrait of his oldest daughter when she was four. His love for aviation and planes began in high school as a member of the C-210 club, ultimately leading him to obtain a private pilot’s license. He was actively involved in event planning, organizing air shows, quarter horse shows in Ann Arbor, MI, and Savoy, IL, golf tournaments, and fundraisers. Doug enjoyed attending car shows, especially those featuring Corvettes and classic cars, and he never went anywhere without a book in hand. 

Doug cherished time with his grandchildren. He loved traveling to visit loved ones, always bringing his beloved dogs along. A devoted Michigan sports fan, he never missed an opportunity to cheer for his favorite teams, Michigan Wolverines and Detroit Lions—Go Blue! In 2005, he became a member of East Bend Church, deepening his faith. Over the years, he shared his love of Boxer breeds with his family and, later in life, grew fond of cats, often sitting with his cat, Goldie, on his lap. Most recently, he found joy in bird watching.

Doug’s life was defined by his unwavering love for his family, his adventurous spirit, and his many passions. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation is 12:00-1:00 on March 15, 2025 at East Bend Church (702 CR 3300N) in Fisher, IL. The Celebration of Life Memorial will follow at 1:00. Luncheon after in the Church Fellowship Hall. 

A live viewing of the service can be found on the East Bend Church Facebook page 

http://www.facebook.com/eastbend 

Flowers and donations may be offered at the church. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Douglas Ray Braun, Sr, please visit our floral store.