Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

March 19, 2021

Gary Russell Brauer, 69, of Matthews, NC died March 19, 2021 at his home. A native of Niles, Ohio, Gary was the son of Russell William Brauer and Justine Mary Logar Brauer.

Gary was a graduate of Johnson & Wales University, and a member of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity. He received a defense service medal for his service in the Navy. Though not professionally trained, he was an accomplished chef and work in a number of restaurants. He would be described as a “foodie”, particularly when it came to seafood, especially lobster.

Gary was caring, kind and always the life of the party. He never met a stranger, and he had a “wicked” since of humor. He would light up a room and could always make you laugh. Gary was known for his one-liners. In the end he never lost that sense of humor and despite his failing health, he remained positive to the end.

He had many other talents as well, such and gardening, photography, woodworking, golf, and drawing. He also made time to be a scout Leader for Troop 54 at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church.  Gary was a lifelong Buffalo Bills fan and a passionate Carolina Paanthers fan. One his favorite activities was decorating for Holidays, especially Christmas. He considered his greatest accomplishment raising his boys, Ben and Steven with the help of his wife, Jan.

In addition to his wife of 31 years, Jan Funderburk Brauer, Gary is survived by their boys, Benjamin A. Brauer and Steven R. Brauer, both,of Matthews, NC; sister, Barbara McDonald and her husband, Mac; brother in law, Greg Funderburk and his wife, Lisa.  Nieces and nephews, Shannon, Michael and Melanie Maraghy, (Piper & Bodhi), and Ashley Brigman (Ben) and Wesley Funderburk (Whitley) and (Watson), and his dog, Casey.  The family will have a service at 1:00 PM on Sunday, April 25, 2021 at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church.

Memorials may be sent to Novant Health Hospice, PO Box 33549, Charlotte, NC 28233-3549 or to St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 3200 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28209.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation for Gary’s caregivers; Kristi, Christine, Jutina, Antonia, Norma Jean and Stephanie.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC; 28204 (704) 641-7606. Online condolences can be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.