John Milton Braaten of Rochester, MN passed away on August 17, 2024.
John was born on October 10, 1938 in Devil’s Lake, ND, the fourth of six children of Pastor MA and Elmyra Braaten. He grew up in North Dakota, Wisconsin and Minnesota. He graduated from Houston, MN High School and after a year of work experience, enrolled at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. At Luther College, he studied English and speech and was a radio announcer and manager of KWLC, the radio voice of Luther College.
He attended Luther Theological Seminary and graduated with a Master of Divinity in 1966. He was ordained into the ELC in 1966. During his ministry, he served churches in Boyceville, Wisconsin; Wheeler, Wisconsin; Fargo, North Dakota; Mayville, North Dakota; Rochester, Minnesota; and Mesa, Arizona.
After his retirement, he was called by the bishop to serve as interim member of Epiphany in Apache Junction, Arizona, where he was also named Lutheran Pastor Emeritus. John was very proud of his contribution to Epiphany’s success.
He married Julie Seegmiller in 1964 and together they had three children: Jeffery (Teri), Jay (Alisa) and Heather.
John was predeceased by his mother, father and brother Jim. He is survived by his children and grandchildren Madison, Lindsey, Ethan, Graham and Annika and his sisters Marlys, Borgne, Ruth and Janet.
We are grateful to the staff at Cottagewood who have become like family to John.
In accordance with John’s wishes, a private family service will be held at a later date.
Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to serve the Braaten family. To share a special memory or condolences, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com.
