Richard Albert Brauer

Richard Albert Brauer Born October 12, 1940, Aurora, Illinois – Passed Away August 27, 2025 Sandwich, Illinois

Richard Albert Brauer was born on October 12, 1940, in Aurora, Illinois, where he also grew up, surrounded by family, childhood friends, and the enduring values of Midwestern life. From those early days alongside lifelong friends such as Dave Konrad and Gary Hemm, Richard crafted tales of neighborhood adventures: riding bikes around town, fishing along the Fox River, daring escapades like shooting rats at the city dump, and mischievously “borrowing” fireworks to stash in a friend’s garage–only for them to go off in a burn pile when the friend’s father was cleaning. These youthful exploits, fondly retold to his children and grandchildren, painted the portrait of a spirited young man with a heart full of curiosity, humor, and joy.

Born into the post-World War II era, Richard witnessed world-changing shifts that defined the 20th and early 21st centuries. He lived through the rise of television, the long shadow of the Cold War, the marvel of space exploration, the moral progress of the civil rights movement, and the digital revolution that carried humanity from radios and rotary phones to smartphones and the internet. Through it all, he remained adaptable and resilient, welcoming the new while holding fast to timeless values of faith, family, and hard work.

In 1969, Richard married Sarah May Bennett, and together they built a life anchored by love, laughter, and shared faith. They welcomed three children, Kirk, Aaron, and daughter Audra, and later expanded their home when they moved to Sandwich, Illinois, in 1980. Their home quickly became a gathering place filled with warmth, simple pleasures, and traditions that strengthened family bonds. Vacations to Six Flags and Silver Dollar City became cherished highlights of the children’s younger years, while later adventures included a Caribbean cruise that remains a treasured family memory. Richard and Sarah also shared special trips together, including peaceful and beautiful visits to Hawaii, which reflected the deep love and companionship they carried throughout their marriage.

Richard adored spending time with his family in everyday ways as well. He could often be found in the driveway, playing competitive yet playful basketball games of “HORSE” with his children, or cheering from the sidelines at his kids’ and grandchildren’s sporting events. He told jokes that kept everyone guessing until the punchline, and his sense of humor filled gatherings with laughter. He also enjoyed tending his garden, a quiet hobby that reflected both his patience and appreciation for nature’s steady rhythms. His loyal dog, Kippy, a white West Highland Terrier, was his constant companion and friend.

His love of music was another constant in his life, especially the timeless sound of big band and swing. Whether played softly at home or shared with family, this music reminded him of the joy and energy of an earlier era and connected him to the culture that shaped his youth. He also cherished time outdoors, golfing and fishing with friends and family, activities that combined camaraderie with the peace of nature.

Richard devoted his working life to the Northern Illinois Gas Company (NiCor), where his diligence and integrity were respected by colleagues and community alike. After retirement, he continued to work for many years at the Sandwich Fair Grounds, remaining a familiar and kind presence who was always ready to lend a hand.

A man of deep and abiding Christian faith, Richard was an active member of his church in Sandwich. He attended services faithfully, found joy in volunteering, and lived out his values quietly but clearly. His faith provided him with guidance, strength, and peace throughout his life, particularly during seasons of trial, including the loss of his beloved daughter Audra, who passed away at age 23 after a long battle with leukemia. Even through grief, Richard held fast to the promise of reunion in heaven, and this hope sustained him and inspired those around him.

Richard is preceded in death by his daughter Audra, as well as his mother Violet, father Albert Sr., sisters MerryLou and Carol, and brother Albert Jr. (Sonny). He is survived by his beloved wife Sarah, his children Kirk (Vicki), Aaron (Joanna) and six cherished grandchildren: Michelle, Ariel, Aidan, Mia, Lincoln, and Owen.

A service to celebrate Richard’s life will be held at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, on Sunday, October 12th. The family welcomes all who knew him to gather in remembrance and thanksgiving. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association (https://www.alz.org) or the Leukemia Research Foundation (https://leukemiarf.org), in memory of Richard’s faith-filled life and generous heart.

Richard stood firm through decades of rapid social and technological change, holding tight to his faith, family, and values. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, humor, and generational wisdom. His life was well lived, his heart well loved, and his example will continue to guide and inspire his family and community for years to come. Memorial Service: Our Savior’s Lutheran Church 2465 W Sandwich Rd. Sandwich, IL 60548 Sunday, October 12th, 2025 Time: TBD Arrangements were entrusted to Burkhart-Eighner Funeral Home Sandwich, IL.

Burkhart-Eighner Funeral Home

606 E. Arnold Rd.

Sandwich, IL 60548

(815) 786-2165