Carl Lee Braun

Carl, a loving husband, devoted father, accomplished engineer, and dedicated community member, passed away on October 9th, 2023, at the age of 81. Born on March 31, 1942, in Farnam, Nebraska, to proud parents Carl and Irma (Hueftle) Braun, he grew up in Eustis, NE.
Visitation will be from 1:00 pm until 4:45 pm Saturday, October 14, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.
The Funeral Service for Carl will be 5:00 pm Saturday, October 14, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Pastor Kaity Kemp officiating. A celebration of Carl’s life will be held immediately following the service at the Dubuque Shooting Society. Please join us in commemorating the life of Carl Lee Braun and sharing your memories and condolences as we remember a remarkable man who touched the hearts of many.
Carl had a passion for mechanical engineering. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Colorado State University in 1965 and embarked on a distinguished career spanning 34 years with Deere & Company in Dubuque. His innovation quickly led to a foundational patent and industry acclaim for the development of the infinitely variable hydrostatic transmission. He traveled the world in his many roles, helping establish trade with China, and spending significant time developing partnerships in Europe and Japan. His dedication and long-term commitment found him capping his career as Manager of Product and Planning and Strategic Engineering for the construction equipment division.
In 1969, Carl married Karol Sue (Traut) Braun, and together they embarked on a journey filled with family, travel, and love. They resided in Dubuque, Iowa, where they built a loving home and cherished their family and friends. For years they explored the United States in their R.V., eventually settling on Fountain Hills, Arizona as their winter haven. The last memories they created there with new and old friends are as warm as the dry heat they so enjoyed.
Carl was a member of First Congregational Church in Dubuque and Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Fountain Hills, where he found spiritual guidance and community.
Beyond his professional achievements, Carl was a pillar of his community. An Eagle Scout in his youth, he became active in Boy Scout leadership, eventually serving as Northeast Iowa Council president. His efforts to strengthen local scouting continues to leave an indelible mark on the lives of countless young individuals. His dedication extended to his role as an executive and foundation board member for Northeast Iowa Community College, where he helped shape the future of education in the region. Carl’s generous spirit was evident in his service as board president and foundation board member for Mount Pleasant Home, where he contributed to the well-being of residents.
A lifelong gearhead possessing the enthusiasm to match his aptitude, Carl spent countless hours in his workshop restoring cars and building engines. After retiring from John Deere, his passion for automobiles drew him to motorsports. He and his son Ryan, with Karol Sue’s steadfast support, raced a vintage Landar R7 sports racer together for nearly 20 years. Always eager to give back, Carl served as a board member, technical inspector, and car preparation steward for the Vintage Sports Car Drivers Association. He was also a member of the 660 Club of the Dubuque Shooting Society, where he spent countless hours enjoying the company of his friends. An adopted river rat and avid water skier, Carl enjoyed boating on the Mississippi for 58 years.
Carl was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Audrey Braun.
Carl’s family was the center of his world. He is survived by his loving wife, Karol Sue Braun, and his children, Jaymie (Tom) Oehler of Omaha and Ryan Carl (Alicia) Braun of Chicago. He shared his passions and talents with his grandsons, Michael, Nathaniel, Hunter, and Julien, who brought immeasurable joy to Carl’s life.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to First Congregational Church of Dubuque or Hospice of Dubuque, who provided compassionate care for him at the end of his life.
A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences sent to the family by visiting Carl’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.