John Braaten

John Milton Braaten of Rochester, MN passed away August 17, 2024.

John was born on October 10, 1938 in Devil's Lake, ND to Pastor M.A. and Elmyra Braaten, the fourth of six children. Growing up he lived in North Dakota, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. He graduated from Houston, MN High School and after working for a year enrolled at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. At Luther, he majored in 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 degree in 1966. He was ordained in the ELC in 1966. During his ministry he served churches in Boyceville, WI; Wheeler, WI; Fargo, ND; Mayville, ND; Rochester, MN; and Mesa AZ.

After retiring, he was called by the Bishop to serve as Interim at Epiphany in Apache Junction, AZ, where he was also named Lutheran Pastor Emeritus. John took great pride in his contribution to the success of Epiphany.

He married Julie Seegmiller in 1964 and together they had 3 children: Jeffery (Teri), Jay (Alisa), and Heather.

John was preceded in death by his mother, father, and brother Jim. He is survived by his children and grandchildren Madison, Lindsey, Ethan, Graham, and Annika; and sisters Marlys, Borgne, Ruth, and Janet.

We are grateful to the Cottagewood staff who became like family to John.

Per John's wishes, a private family service will take place at a later date.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Braaten family.