Evening Republican, Volume 59, Number 96, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 14 May 1917 — OTTO BRAUN PASSES AWAY SUDDENIY [ARTICLE]

OTTO BRAUN PASSES AWAY SUDDENIY

Former Rensselaer Bandmaster Took Sick Saturday Evening and Died > Short Time Later.

Word was received Sunday morning in this city to the effect that Otto Braun, of Lowell, had died suddenly Saturday evening, after an illness of but two hours’ duration. Mt. Braun took very ill about 9 o’clock and died at about JI. Death was thought to be due to heart trouble. At the time of his death Mr. Braun was about 42 years of age. Otto, as he was known to everyone, was the. former bandmaster here, having served in that capacity for six years, resigning about a year ago. Mr. Braun organized the Rensselaer band and through his splendid efficiency made it one of the -best musical organizations in this section of the state. Deceased and family also made this city their residence for some time, during which time he formed many acquaintances and made many friends through his cheery disposition, epsecialily among the younger people. Following his removal from this city, the Braun family went to Lowedl, where Mr. Braun sold musical instruments and acted as a tutor for several bands in that vicinity. For the past year or so Mr. Braun’s condition had been bad, but of late he apparently was regaining his former health and his death coming at this time was a surprise. Otto Braun was bom in Germany in 1874 and came to this country about twelve years ago and with his family took up his residence in Chicago, later moving to Francesville and from there to Lowell, after which he came to Rensselaer for a short time. In the death of Otto Braun a sterling character has been removed. The deceased had won for himself a place in the heart of everyone who knew him. There was scarcely a man, woman or child in this section of the state that had not heard or knew of Otto Braun, the bandmaster. His kindly disposition and friendliness toward everyone were characteristics that had endeared him to all. Mr. Braun leaves to mourn their loss, his wife, three daughters and two sons, and his mother, who is in Germany. Two brothers also are in Germany helping to fight the battles of their mother country, but it is not known for sure that they are .living. The funeral will be held Tuesday afternoon and burial made in the Lowell cemetery. The Rensselaer band will attend in a body and it is probable that some of the other bands of which Mr. Braun was an instructor, will also be there. It was stated that the Monon train leaving this city at 10:36 would stop at Lowell on Tuesday, but the officials have abandoned this idea and the train will not stop. Those wishing to attend the funeral must go on the milk train or by automobile.