Wilbur N. Braun

Wilbur Braun, age 79, of Redwood Falls, passed away Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at CentraCare - St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud. A prayer service will be held at 2:00 pm on Friday, July 17, 2026, at Nelson-Hillestad Funeral Home in Redwood Falls with burial to follow at the St. Catherines Catholic Church Cemetery in Redwood Falls. A Visitation will be held one hour prior to his prayer service.

Arrangements are pending with Nelson-Hillestad Funeral and Cremation Services of Redwood Falls and Morgan. E-mail condolences may be sent via www.nelson-hillestad.com.

Wilbur N. Braun was born on May 31, 1947, in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, to the son of Wilbur Sr. and Mary Braun. He was baptized on June 15, 1947 at St. Alysius Church in Olivia.

Wilbur’s journey was one of dedication and quiet impact. Since 1988, he devoted himself to his work at Service Enterprise, Inc. (SEI), remaining there until his well-earned retirement in 2025. Through SEI, Wilbur contributed his talents and warmth to numerous businesses in the Redwood community, including Zytec, Redwood Valley School, Schult Homes, The Recycling Center, and Lower Sioux Lodge. His presence brightened every workplace he touched, but in these later years, Wilbur particularly cherished the time spent with SEI— putting puzzles together, working on craft projects, and sharing music with his beloved friends and the staff who quickly became extended family.

Wilbur’s days were filled with laughter and affection. Those who knew him were greeted each morning by his ever-present smile and the sound of his infectious laugh. He had a gentle and playful way about him, always quick to share a joke or a hug, and his warmth made his presence deeply treasured. SEI staff recall with tenderness how every day began with Wilbur’s signature hugs and laughter, and they will fondly remember his playful admonition to “go home” as they arrived for work, a testament to his unique sense of humor and the genuine bonds he forged with those around him.

Wilbur enjoyed helping staff bake at times. He also enjoyed coloring, puzzles and car rides. Wilbur liked to joke around with the staff. Wilbur loved his cookies and donuts or anything sweet. Wilbur would dance and sing to Elvis Presley if you put it on for him. He loved to pick on his next-door roommate. Wilbur lived with REM for 38 years

Wilbur is survived by his siblings, Elaine Molenaar from Renville, Monica (Duane) Becker of Brownton, John Braun of Redwood Falls, Rosemary Braun of Willmar, Barb Pichotta of Stewart, Sharon (Todd) Redman of Hector, Karen Brown of Hutchinson and many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Wilbur was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbur Sr. and Mary Braun; brothers, Gerald, Russell, Ralph and sister, Marlene; brother-in-law Orville Molenaar and nephew, Michael Molenaar.

Wilbur will be deeply missed, remembered always for his ever-present smile and laughter that made the world a brighter place for all who crossed his path.