Frederick Lee Braucht

Frederick Lee Braucht, known to his loved ones as Fred, passed away on October 19, 2023 in Corpus Christi, Texas. He was born on January 15, 1934, to Frederick Alden and Phoebe Leila Braucht, in the bustling city of Chicago, Illinois.

From an early age, Fred exhibited a natural talent for salesmanship. This led him to a successful career as a salesman at Sears, where he excelled in selling appliances. His incredible ability to persuade people earned him a reputation - some even claimed that he could sell ice chips to Eskimos. Fred's relentless passion for selling eventually led him to become self-employed, specializing in selling tires for truck stops. It was through this venture that he achieved remarkable success and ranked second in the nation for a shop his size. In recognition of his achievement, Goodyear brought their blimp and took Fred and his beloved wife Patricia for an unforgettable ride; a moment that forever held a special place in his heart.

Fred's love story with Patricia began during their school days when she came to his aid on several assignments. Her help not only resulted in him receiving excellent grades but also sparked a deep connection between them. Eager to return the favor, Fred offered to assist Patricia with her math studies, even though she didn't really need it. Little did they know that this act of kindness would deepen their bond and pave the way for a beautiful journey together. After six months of dating, they got engaged and walked down the aisle on August 27, 1960. Together, they celebrated 63 truly amazing years of love and companionship.

In addition to his professional achievements and personal life milestones, Fred proudly served as a Tailgunner in the United States Air Force. During his military service, he flew aboard the legendary B36 - the largest bomber ever built by the US - showcasing both his resilience and dedication. Fred's diligence and commitment to his duty were evident in his rapid rise to the rank of Staff Sergeant within just three and a half years; a feat that highlighted his exceptional dedication.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Fred had a passion for craftsmanship. He possessed an incredible knack for working with wood, whether it be creating intricate toys or crafting beautiful crown moldings. His skills were truly remarkable, and he even took on the ambitious project of building his own three-car garage - with the exception of the concrete work, of course. Once completed, Fred transformed the existing garage into a cozy den, showcasing his love for innovation and creating warm spaces.

During his downtime, Fred enjoyed indulging in online games such as solitaire and battleship. Patricia affectionately admitted that he may have been slightly addicted to Solitaire, as it became a cherished pastime for him. These simple yet enjoyable activities brought him comfort and allowed him to unwind.

Fred leaves behind a legacy that will be forever etched in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He is survived by his beloved wife Patricia and their daughter Amy Cooper(Tim) and their son, David Braucht(Lori); also his sister, Mina Driver. Together, they formed a tight-knit family filled with cherished memories and unconditional love.

The services honoring Fred's life will take place on October 23, 2023. A graveside service will be held at Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery in Corpus Christi, Texas, starting at 11:00 AM.

Throughout his journey, Fred touched the lives of countless individuals through his unwavering spirit and genuine kindness. His determination in salesmanship, dedication to duty, artistic talents, and love for Patricia will forever be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Fred's presence will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all who had the opportunity to experience his infectious joy for life. As we bid farewell to this remarkable individual, let us hold onto the memories we shared with Fred and carry his legacy forward, always embracing the lessons he taught us about perseverance, love, and the importance of living life to the fullest.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to Annaville Baptist Church in Fred's honor!