Charles Douglas Braeger, age 82, of Hayward, WI, passed away peacefully Monday, July 7, 2025, at his home.

Chuck was born July 29, 1942, in Milwaukee, WI, the son of Carl and Lorraine (Neitzel) Braeger. He was a star football and track athlete at Wisconsin Lutheran where he broke many school records. After graduation from University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, Chuck dedicated his entire life serving his country and community by joining the United States Air Force and Army Reserves. For 38 years he was a Milwaukee and Mukwonago Police Officer, where he was known for his fairness, integrity and commitment. Chuck was a devoted husband to Ruth Ann (Guibord) for 55 years and a loving father to Chad, Cory & Charlie. He will always be remembered for his kind heart and off beat sense of humor. Chuck was committed to making everyone around him smile, laugh and have a good time. He spent countless hours organizing trips and events for his friends, family and especially grandchildren. Well into retirement, at the age of 69, Chuck began jogging again by running 5K runs across the state, winning many medals and awards. He was a member and volunteer for LCO AMVETS, Republican Party campaigns and several Veterans Associations. Chuck loved fishing, auto races, and being outside with his dog and working in the yard. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family and many lives he touched serving his community.

He is survived by his wife Ruth; sons Chad Braeger, Cory Braeger (Tia Saipanya) & Charlie Braeger; cherished grandchildren Eliana, Isaac, Cole & Rhys; and brother Jim Braeger.

Chuck was preceded in death by his parents Carl & Lorraine.

Mass of Christian was held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, July 10, 2025, at St. Francis Solanus Indian Mission in Reserve. Father Madanu Karunakar officiated. Burial was in Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery with military honors accorded by the State of Wisconsin Military Honors Team and LCO AMVETS Post #1998. Visitation was held from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m., Thursday, July 10th at Pineview Funeral Service, prior to Mass at the church.

Honorary casket bearers were Eric Gawlitta & Edwin Robinson.

Casket Bearers were Damon Bishop, Ray Grundhoefer, J.R. Guibord, Ernie Kolumbus, Clint Price & Tony Price.