James Braeger

James Thomas Braeger, 69, passed away May 21, 2019 at his home in Leonard, ND surrounded by family. James was born January 14, 1950 in Alexandria, MN to Kenneth and Bernardine Braeger. James grew up in Osakis, MN and went to school at St. Agnes Elementary and later graduated from Osakis High School. He married Cheryl Asleson in 1971 and they had 3 children, Kenneth, Donavan, and Anthony. They raised their three boys in Fergus Falls, MN. James married Judith Brunsberg in 1991 and moved to Leonard, ND in 1995. James helped with the family farm and after high school began his truck driving career. At the time of his death, he drove for OLR Transportation of West Fargo, ND. James was a member and past president of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles in Fergus Falls, MN. He was also a member of the Elks Clown Club and Independent order of Foresters. In his younger years he was an avid bowler. One of his hobbies was building computers and being an overall computer guru for others. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren and hearing about their activities and accomplishments. He enjoyed gardening and canning with his wife, Judie. He enjoyed grocery shopping and teaching his children how to shop for “deals”. It was never uncommon to find out from him that “hamburger” was on sale at Cashwise. He was a “collector” of things as was evident by his full garage and basement.  James is survived by his wife, Judith Braeger; sons Kenneth (Dena) Braeger of Fort Knox, KY, Anthony (Zoey) Braeger of Poulsbo, WA; step-children, Melissa Maxwell of Fargo, ND, Derek (Nicky) Brunsberg of Becker, MN, Sarah Brunsberg of Fargo, ND; siblings, Beverly (Syl) Schmidt of Alexandria, MN, Gary (Patty) Braeger of West Concord, MN, Shirley (Gerald) Friedrichs of Buffalo, MN, Veronica Davis of Richville, MN, Mark (Tracey) Braeger of Fargo, ND; 22 grandchildren; 1 great grandchild; numerous nieces and nephews; and his special dog, Barney. James is preceded in death by his parents and son, Donavan Braeger.