Wesley Braun

Wesley Braun, 85, of Topeka, passed away Friday, November 26, 2021.

He was born February 9, 1936 in Henderson, Nebraska, the son of Jacob and Marie (Regier) Braun. He was a graduate of Henderson High School and received his Bachelor's degree from Tabor College and 2 Master's Degrees from Kansas University.

Wesley married the love of his life, Mary Elois Eitzen on May 31, 1958. She preceded him in death on May 18,1996. Survivors include three sons, Steven Braun, MD of Galena, MO, James Braun of Overland Park, KS, Robert Braun, PhD of Denham Springs, LA; 11 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; and 4 siblings.

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents and 3 of his sisters.

A down to earth Renaissance man, he was incredibly well read and a wonderful wordsmith. He was a world traveler intent on exposing his family to all manner of experience and opportunity. He was equally comfortable working with his hands and later in life returned to his roots as a farmer who enjoyed the outdoors and caring for his cattle. His intellect was matched by his physical presence. He was a handsom, powerful man with a ferocious work ethic. His fierce independence and concern for others made him a formidable advocate for his students.

Mr. Braun started off as teacher and coach for Silver Lake and Washburn Rural school districts before setting out on the adventure of his family's lifetime in 1969 by moving to Holland where he taught English and coached basketball for the American School of the Hague. He returned to Kansas in 1978 where he taught English at Jay Shideler and worked as a guidance counselor at Washburn Rural. He retired from teaching in 1995 to care for his wife who died from breast cancer the next year. Thereafter Wesley expanded his farming operation just outside of Topeka. He loved the hard work, self reliance and independence demanded by farming.

Wesley had a strong faith in Jesus Christ as his Savior. He lived out his faith through his strong sense of justice and care for others. As Important an influence on his family and others as was his understanding of the Bible, was the example of his life. In particular his greatest sermon was reserved for the last 16 years of his life after he had suffered a significant stroke and was unable to effectively talk or move his right side. The amazing balance of determination and grace with which he handled his mobility and communication limitations was nothing short of miraculous.He was a joy to be around. He raised the spirits of everyone around him. He was kind and appreciative. Whatever his own circumstance, his mission throughout his life was to help and improve the lives of others.

Visitation is scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 Saturday, December 4, 2021 at Penwell Gable Funeral home, 1321 SW 10th Ave., Topeka, Kansas. A graveside service will be held the same day at 1:00 p.m., at West Lawn Memorial Gardens, 820, SW Auburn Rd., Topeka, Kansas. Penwell-Gabel Cremations, Funerals & Receptions in Topeka is assisting the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Harvesters to support the childrens' BackSnack program, 215 SE Quincy Ave, Topeka, KS 66603.

To leave a special message for Wesley's family, please visit the guestbook below.