Obituary of Frederick L. Braack

Frederick L. Braack Fred Braack, age 90, passed away of natural causes on June 3, 2013 at Manor Care of Lacey. The greatest love of his life, Betty, passed away on Dec. 21, 2005. Fred and Betty were married at Ft. Lewis, Washington and spent 62 years together. Fred was born and raised in Olympia, graduated from Olympia High School in 1941, and later served in the United States Army in the European theater of operation with Patton’s 3rd Army during World War II. Upon his discharge from the Army, Fred went to work with his father-in-law at Jakes Radiator in Olympia, later becoming owner until he closed the business in 1968. He worked several years for JD Dutton Company and finished his working career with Thurston County, retiring from the Maintenance Department in 1985. During his life, Fred and Betty enjoyed boating with many trips to the San Juan Islands with members of the Olympia Outboard Club in their 21-foot boat and later in their 26-foot cabin cruiser. Fred was known for always taking a group of kids on hikes or playing baseball during those outings. After their boating years, Fred and Betty enjoyed traveling in their trailer and spending time in Hemet, California. Even though Fred had no formal training, he could construct or fix almost anything, including the building of two homes, an elaborate play house for his daughters (known as the “Three K Hut,” and many other projects through the years. Fred was known for his warm smile and sense of humor, along with being a good story teller, enjoying a bourbon and water (hold the water), playing keno (which he rarely won at), and playing pull tabs. His family greatly appreciated his “Fredisms” (“How Do” and “very good very good”). Fred is survived by his three daughters, Karen (Ray) of Wenatchee, Kathy (Jim) of Lacey, Kris (John) of Scott Lake; six grandchildren, Dan, Kevin, Stacie, Heather, Emily and Jacob; along with nine great grandchildren, Aaron, Zackary, Lucas, Raven, Hayden, Noah, Hannah, Michaela, Joshua and another due in December. His family will be holding a celebration of life at the VFW Post 318 (2902 Martin Way E, Olympia) on June 22, 2013 from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. All those who knew Fred and would like to pay their respects are invited to attend. Please leave memories of Fred or condolences for the family in the Guestbook below.