Robert J. Braet

Robert J. Braet, a beloved family man and dedicated railroad worker, passed away on May 30, 2023. He was 89 years old.

Born on September 30, 1933, in Kansas City, Bob graduated from Turner High School in 1951 where he played football and was an outstanding offensive lineman. He then went on to serve his country in the Sixth Armored Division of the United States Army with the Armored Field Artillery Battalion Battery B from 1953-1955. During his time in the military, Bob also played basketball and traveled with the team to entertain the troops.

After his military service, Bob began a career with the Santa Fe Railroad and worked for over four decades before retiring as yardmaster in 1988. During his time at Santa Fe Railroad, he worked his way up from switchman and received numerous safety awards for his dedication and commitment to his work.

Bob was a kind-hearted man who loved nothing more than spending time with his family. His face would light up whenever he got to see his grandchildren and great-grandchildren who were the lights of his life. He always said that seeing their first-born great-grandchildren was a dream come true. He eventually had five!

Bob married his high school sweetheart, Darlene Helen Braet, with whom he shared 54 wonderful years before her passing. They loved everything from square dancing to swing and would often be found gliding across dance floors together.

In his free time, Bob enjoyed playing golf and watching it. After retiring from Santa Fe Railroad, he became a Golf Marshall at Heritage Golf Course. He impressively had four "Hole-in-Ones" over his lifetime. Alongside golf, he also enjoyed football and westerns.

Bob had a wonderful sense of humor which made him well-loved by all those around him—whether they were neighbors, friends, or family members. He was a kind and generous soul who was always willing to lend a hand.

Bob is survived by his sons Steve and Ron Braet along with their families, daughter-in-law Dana Braet, grandson Taylor, and his wife, Leah Braet and grandson Corey, and his wife, Sarah Braet. Further survived by great-grandchildren Brittany, Delaney, Briley, James, and John.

He was proceeded in death by his wife, Darlene Braet; brother and sister-in-law, Charles and Phyllis Braet; as well as his parents, Charles and Margaret Braet.

Robert J. Braet will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege to know him. His memory will live on forever in the hearts of his loved ones.

Memorials have been established with:

Kansas Humane Society

3313 N. Hillside

Wichita, KS 67219

Wildcat NIL

(Supporting Kansas State University Athletics)

PO Box #10247

Kansas City, MO 64171

Click the link to donate https://catsnil.com/?v=7516fd43adaa