John Brautigam

Walter John Brautigam, age 76, was born on February 1, 1943, in Conroe, Texas. John departed this life to spend eternity with Jesus, his Lord and Savior. He passed away on April 23, 2019 at his home near Centerville, Texas. John was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Cecilia Chunda Brautigam of Decker Prairie, Texas.

John will be lovingly remembered by his best friend and wife of 48 years, Darleen Bailey Brautigam, and two daughters: Sandra Brautigam, of Decker Prairie, and Sherry (Matthew) Boyd and his granddaughter, Kayla Smith, of Centerville. He is also survived by his brother Edward (Esther) Brautigam and his sister Cecilia (Emil) Vasicek and their children George, Cecilia (Nick and their daughter Tessa) and Mary Beth. He also will be fondly remembered by a loving array of extended family and friends!

John spent the majority of his life on the Brautigam homestead in Decker Prairie, Texas, before moving to Leon County in 2005. He served his country in the Army in Vietnam. He came home with a Purple Heart and pieces of shrapnel from a land mine. He raised cattle and hay all of his life with the help of his family. He especially loved that his granddaughter Kayla followed in his footsteps with his love for cattle. They shared the JK brand and a special bond that few will ever understand. His family and friends knew him to be a fountain of wisdom and generosity. Everyone has their own stories to describe him, but strong and kind seem to be the two that are heard the most. He seemed to have a special bond with children.

There will be a graveside service at North Creek Cemetery on Saturday, April 27, 2019 at 11:00am. Following that will be a celebration of John’s life at the Cowboy Church of Leon County at 12:00pm. All family and friends are encouraged to attend.

John requested no flowers, but suggested that family and friends might give a love gift to someone you know who could really use it.

John prefers no suits, but rather casual or western attire, which was his favorite.
Google directions to North Creek Cemetery, Oakwood, Texas, or as follows:
From Centerville, head east on Highway 7 about 10 miles. Turn North (Left) on FM 1511, and go about 3 miles. Turn East (Right) on FM 3178, and go about 1 mile. Turn North (Left) on County Road 281 at North Creek Baptist Church, and follow to cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Walters Funeral Home in Centerville, Texas.