David A. Braeger, 51, of Rhinelander,died on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2012, at his home. He was born on July 6, 1961, in Rhinelander, to Norman and Joy (Lewis) Braeger.

David attended Three Lakes High School. He was employed as a driver for Marathon Transfer Company, transporting mail between Stevens Point and Melon. Later in life, David studied at Minnesota State College in Red Wing, Minn., where he earned his degree as a brass and woodwind instrument repair technician. It was his honor to repair the horn of Grammy Award winning artist Kim Richmond who often plays and teaches as part of the Jazz Band Camp at Holiday Acres. He loved music and the arts but was particularly fond of Jazz. He married his wife, Donna on Dec. 23, 2006, in Rhinelander. Saturday mornings at the Braegers were known as Polka Day, enjoying a special three hours on WXPR as David and Jake the cat were dancing polka partners during the show. He enjoyed time spent at his hunting camp and was very proud of his five trophy whitetail mounts. David will be fondly remembered for his kind heart and generous spirit.

David is survived by his wife, Donna Braeger of Rhinelander; his parents, Norman and Joy Braeger of Rhinelander; his daughter, Jennifer (Greg) Bohn of Rhinelander; grandchildren Owen and Aubrey Bohn; sister, Terri (Paul) Baehr of Rhinelander; nieces, Hannah, Katie, and Gracie Baehr; mother-in-law, Ida Bergeon; and in-laws, Pat (Jim) Bradeburg, Louise Baumgartner, John (Marge) Bergeon, Judy (Stanley) Hill, and Merle Bergeon. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents; an aunt, Helen Braeger; an uncle, Walt Braeger; and brother-in-law, Scott Bergeon.

A memorial service for David will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 12, at 4 p.m., at the Carlson Funeral Home, with Chaplain John Uhlarik officiating. Visitation will be from 1 p.m. until the time of service on Wednesday at the funeral home.

(Carlson Funeral Home)