Leslie Craig Braund

Leslie (known to most as “Les” or “Skip”) was born on December 6, 1944, in Cleveland, Ohio, and spent his childhood in Chesterland. He was preceded in death by his father, Russell G. Braund; his mother, Mae J. Braund; and his sister, Cheryl B. Hogg.

He is survived by his stepdaughter, Laura Lockhart (husband Douglas) of Las Vegas; his brother-in-law, Edward Hogg of Ocean Springs, Mississippi; his nephew, Russell Hogg of Atlanta; his niece, Corrie Beth Hogg of New York City; and many beloved extended family members and friends.

Les served in the U.S. Navy from June 1965 to March 1969 as an Interior Communications Electrician, Second Class. He was stationed aboard the USS Outagamie County (LST 1073), a “Landing Ship Tank.” Affectionately nicknamed “Twiggy” by his shipmates, Les was known for his quick wit, once telling his superiors, “I can’t fix it. It’s beyond human repair.” His military service remained an important chapter in his life.

Following his service, Les spent the majority of his working years as a general contractor, a role that reflected his leadership, problem-solving skills, and hands-on craftsmanship. He became well-known in the San Diego area not just for his work, but also for his active mind and commitment to his community. In his younger years, Les had a bit of a wild streak and a deep love for fast cars. He enjoyed attending classic car shows and was always eager to discuss them, sharing stories, favorite models, and memories with fellow enthusiasts.

Les’s enduring connection to nature and lifelong commitment to learning led him to many volunteer roles over the years. He was a longtime board member and past president of the San Diego Mycological Society; a 30-plus-year volunteer, hike leader, and former president of the Friends of Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve; and a dedicated contributor of more than a decade to the Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum. Les often wrote letters to the editor, sharing his thoughtful perspectives on local politics. He was equally known for his practical wisdom and strong opinions, whether on civic matters or the best way to hang a door so it was plumb, level, and square.

Les was a sponge for knowledge and generous with his time and skills. His many passions included mushroom and lichen hunting, birdwatching, native plants, and the journals of Lewis & Clark. He was often seen hiking canyon trails, peering through binoculars from his back patio, browsing the swap meet, or at his microscope in the garage.

He will be remembered for his easy laugh, sharp mind, and eagerness to share what he knew. Les cultivated a wide and eclectic circle of friends, brought together by a shared love of nature, baseball, opera, and community. His friendships were as diverse as his interests, ranging from bookbinding and Native American history to natural science and more, each rooted in curiosity, generosity, and mutual admiration. He was the kind of dinner guest everyone wanted to invite: always up for a thoughtful conversation, and always appreciative of a good meal. Just a few days before he passed, when asked what he was up to, Les replied with a smile in his voice, “Oh, about six feet.” That blend of humor, warmth, and intelligence was his signature, and it will be sorely missed.

He believed in showing up, doing things the right way, and leaving a place better than he found it. Whether building with his own hands or standing up for a cause he believed in, Les gave his energy freely to the people and projects that mattered most. Whether you knew him as a stepfather, an uncle, a cousin, or a friend, you knew someone who left an impression and whose absence will be felt more than words can say.

Memorial Service

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Please arrive by 10:45 AM and line up in Lane 2 behind the administration building.

Service begins promptly at 11:15 AM

Miramar National Cemetery

5795 Nobel Dr, San Diego, CA 92122

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Friends of Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve.