Gordon James Braun

Gordon “Gordy” James Braun, 94, passed away on June 28, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. He was born on February 18, 1931, to Clarence and Lucille Braun and raised in Two Rivers, WI. Gordy was in the Army, played in the Army Band, and served during the Trieste Conflict. As a result of his time in the military, he became a very strong supporter of Veterans for Peace. Gordy then went on to graduate from UW Oshkosh. On March 26, 1955, Gordy and Gretchen Hofmann were married and they enjoyed 51 years of marriage until her passing.

Gordy was a science teacher in Appleton his entire career, where he earned the respect of his peers and students alike. He enjoyed leading the Science Olympiad team and was very proud of the awards they received. Gordy was an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing. He was an active member of the Trout Unlimited Fox Valley Chapter, where a volunteer service award was established in his name. He also loved to spend time with his family, particularly the grandchildren, and got to introduce them to many outdoor activities. Gordy lived a full and happy life.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Gretchen; son, Scott; grandson, Christopher; brothers, Robert and William; and special love and college sweetheart, Janet Kottke.

He is survived by his children, Michael Gordon (Tammy), Hayden Wayne (Partner Iman Khan) Knight, Eric Paul (Kim), Timothy James (Fiancée Jo Marie Bergholte), James Matthew (Pamela), and Julie Catherine; daughter-in-law, René; grandchildren, Melissa (Travis) Vandenberg, Alexander, and Abigail, Adrienne and Arielle Knight, Paul and Jennifer (Jake) Paulson, Matthew and Sarah, Jacqueline and Tomas, Olivia, Sophie, Morgan, and Sawyer; 7 great-grandchildren; and many other nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

According to Gordy’s wishes, no services will be held. Memorials may be made to Veterans for Peace or the Trout Unlimited Fox Valley Chapter. The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff at Waunakee Manor and Agrace hospice.