Russel Braun

Russel J. Braun, 44, a resident of Battle Lake, died Friday, April 20, 2007, at his home. He was born August 1, 1962, in Hastings, Minnesota, the son of Leo and Norine (Keesler) Braun. He grew up in New Trier, Minnesota, attending elementary school at St. Mary's. He went to high school in Hastings. On February 14, 2002, he married Marlys Nash, the daughter of Harvey and Marjorie Hanson, in North Branch. He was employed as a general laborer. He spent three years in the Army Reserve. He was also a member of the Underwood Lions Club and A.B.A.T.E. Russel enjoyed gardening, snowmobiling, and taking cars apart and fixing them up. He loved his demo cars, and ice racing with his wife, stepchildren, and brothers. Preceding him in death were his grandparents: Michael and Amelia (Yetzer) Braun, and John and Rachel (Thompson) Keesler. Survivors include his wife, Marlys Braun of Battle Lake; his daughter, Nicole (Mitch) Matson of Albert Lea; his stepchildren: Christopher, Nichole, and April Nash, all of Battle Lake; grandchildren: Samantha Ullmann, Destiny Nash, Tiana-Lynn Bruzek, and Tylor and Luke Matson; his parents: Leo and Norine Braun of Underwood; sisters: Vanessa, and Rachelle (Forrest) Hanson; brothers: Ralph, Rodney (Lori), Remy (Julie), and Roger (Laura); numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins; and his beloved dog, Chance. Visitation: One hour prior to the service at the church Memorial Service: 1 p.m. Tuesday at Messiah Lutheran Church, Underwood, Clergy: Reverends Scott Mikkelson and Bill Colbeck