Warren F Brauer

Warren F. Brauer, born on the farm in Cass County, ND, on March 30, 1943, died peacefully on December 4, 2023. He was the son of Fred and Hattie Brauer, and his early years were woven with the simplicity of attending a one-room schoolhouse during his first few years of grade school.

Growing up working the land with his siblings Lawrence, June, Eileen and Doug, Warren's formative years on the farm instilled in him a work ethic that became the guiding force throughout his entire life. In 1959, a new chapter unfolded as the family sold the farm and bought a resort in Detroit Lakes, MN. It was here that Warren not only continued to cultivate his farm work ethic but also met Virginia (Ginger) Hanson and graduated high school in 1961. Warren and Ginger married in 1963, setting the stage for a partnership that would weather the years with grace and strength.

After living in the Fargo/Moorhead community and attending Moorhead State University, Warren and Ginger embraced a new adventure, settling in Brainerd, MN. Warren's entrepreneurial spirit thrived as he established Northern Outdoors, Stereo 1, Computer 1, and The Last Turn Saloon in Brainerd; developed Westport Shopping Center in Baxter; and founded Brauer Commercial Real Estate Services.

Ginger's passing in 2001 left a void, but in 2003, love found its way back into Warren's life when he met Karen Christianson and they were united in marriage in 2006. Together, they created a haven on the shores of Lake Sylvan, a testament to the beauty of second chances.

Warren's legacy extends to his children, Lisa Brauer (married to Terry Burke) and Jonathan Brauer (wife Cristin Burnett); grandchildren Rachel, Bridget, Connor, Lily and Norton; great-grandchildren, Rowan, Remy, Gavin and Felicity; and extended family Chad Christianson and his daughter Lauren; Kipp Christianson and daughter Clover.

A lifelong Vikings fan, Warren's loyalty to the team was unwavering. His love for fishing, whether in the Brainerd Lakes Area or the waters off the Big Island of Hawaii, brought him immeasurable joy. A trained cabinet maker and carpenter, Warren's skilled hands were always at work on various projects.

In accordance with Warren's wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. Instead, we invite you to join us in honoring Warren and celebrating his life. Please raise a glass and share your memories on Thursday, December 14, 2023, from 1:00-4:00 PM at Madden’s Wilson Bay Lodge Lobby in Brainerd, MN.

As we come together to pay tribute to Warren's life, let us find solace in the memories of a man whose work ethic, dedication, and craftsmanship touched the lives of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, we kindly request that memorials be directed to the Mayo Clinic in memory of Warren Brauer.