Braden Mattei Jr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of JOSEPH “BRADEN” MATTEI JR., age 64, of Leander, Texas, who passed away peacefully on December 12, 2024. He was a devoted son to Edna Earle Mattei-Nelson and the late Joseph Braden Mattei. A dear brother to Karyn Mattei Saucedo (Dr. Jorge Saucedo), he was also a beloved uncle to Dr. Jose “Joey” and Jorge “Georgi” Saucedo, as well as Michael Braden Thornton and Lyla Thornton, along with numerous cousins and friends. He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Charles and Emily Mattei of San Antonio, Texas, and his maternal grandmother, Urline Dupuy-Hernandez of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, as well as many other relatives.

Born on September 13, 1960, in Austin, Texas, Braden was an intellectual, adventurous, and active young man who engaged in various activities such as baseball, skiing, swimming, and gymnastics, to name a few. He excelled academically, demonstrating a thirst for knowledge and a passion for learning. His intellectual prowess earned him the affectionate nickname “The Wizard,” a testament to his brilliance and ingenuity. Beyond the classroom, Braden was drawn to nature and loved exploring the outdoors, climbing trees, and appreciating God’s creation around him.

At the age of 1½, Braden moved with his family to Darien, Connecticut. His father worked for a major oil company requiring his family to move frequently, allowing them to explore various places they called “home,” including Tripoli, Libya, Sydney, Australia, and Houston, Texas, where he attended Memorial High School and graduated from Sam Houston State University. Following graduation, Braden worked for Lockheed Martin for 5 years. After the Gulf War ended, Braden started his own jet ski repair business which he eventually closed to attend chiropractic school in Houston. Later, he worked in a hospital on the island of Saba before returning to Austin, Texas, where he worked for Home Depot for many years and later for Walmart. In addition to living and working around the world, he frequently traveled with his family to many destinations, including Europe (Spain, Italy, etc.), Japan, Thailand, Hong Kong, and many others.

As he grew older, Braden’s love for adventure and the outdoors manifested in his discovery of his true passion—jet skiing. His love for high-speed competition and his mechanical aptitude steered him toward building and racing jet skis, where he truly made his mark. As the leader of “The Outlaws” Jet Ski Race Team, Braden created a legacy of excellence that spanned decades. Under his guidance, the team became a dynasty, known for its relentless pursuit of victory and the top talent it produced. Braden was not only a master of the craft but also a visionary who trained and mentally prepared racers for the biggest jet ski racing events globally.

He traveled across the USA, splitting the waves from coast to coast. When the Outlaws showed up, there was going to be a showdown on the water. Braden won the National Championship in Endurance Jet Ski Racing and earned countless podium finishes, series championships, and overall championships—all reflecting his dedication and determination to prove that the Outlaws were more than just a competing team. They were the team to beat, exemplifying resilience and vigor in the jet ski racing world.

In his personal adult life, Braden was many things to many people: a devoted son, a father figure, a loving brother, a loyal friend, a dedicated coach, and a wise mentor. His love of nature shone through his green thumb and his impressive repertoire of photographs, which included flowers, plants, and his beloved cat, Spot. Braden’s ability to inspire and uplift those around him is a legacy that will continue to resonate through the countless individuals he mentored and guided.

Braden’s passing leaves a void that can never be filled, but his spirit will live on in the memories and hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. We will forever cherish the moments shared, the lessons learned, and the love he so freely gave.

As we bid farewell to our dear friend, let us celebrate the life of Braden Mattei—a true icon in the world of jet ski racing and an extraordinary human being. Rest in peace, Main Outlaw. Your legacy will endure, and you will be deeply missed.

The Mattei and Saucedo Families would like to thank the entire health care team at The Cancer Care Clinic at St. David’s South Medical Center (Austin, TX), especially Dr. Aravind Ramakrishnan and Cathy Barnett, and Dr. Lucas Jacomides at NAU Urology Specialists for many years of incredible dedication and personalized care.

The family is planning to have a memorial service sometime this summer, details to follow.

In celebration of Braden’s life, the family suggests donations may be made in Braden’s memory to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society online at givenow.LLS.org or by mail at LLS Donor Services, P.O. Box 22324, New York, NY 10087.