Merle Landon Braden passed away on May 9, 2018. Services will be held on Wednesday, May 16th at Queen of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 7023 W. 71st Street, Overland Park, KS with visitation at 10:00 am, Mass at 11:00 am with luncheon to follow. Memorial contributions can be made to the church.
Merle was born in Eureka, KS on November 10, 1932. He and his family were residents of Overland Park, KS since 1962. He was preceded in death by his wife, Dolores Braden in 2015; his parents, Kendall Braden and Edna (Peebles) Braden; his sister, Margaret Henegar and his brother, Lynn Braden. He married DoloresBrazil on March 1, 1952 one day prior to his deployment overseas. He served in the United States Army with honorable discharge in March 1961. He attended Kansas State University Engineering School and graduated in three years! He worked as a Civil Engineer for the Army Corps of Engineers for 37 years. He then served as an engineering consultant many years after retirement.
Merle was a man of great constitution and fortitude. He was driven and no task was ever too large. His plate was always full, but he made himself available to help anyone in need. His brain never shut off to sleep, he would go to bed with an issue on his mind, and he would always wake up with a solution... He said he did his best thinking at night! He was efficient in his work and every aspect of his life. Merle was gentle in his ways, quiet and humble, and his heart was loving. Some give a little in this life, but this man gave all. Vicki, Teresa and Greg have been honored and blessed to be his children. He was active in his church and a member since 1962, where he served in many capacities. Survivors include three children: Vicki (Braden) Willett, Teresa (Braden) Cacioppo and Gregory Merle Braden; grandchildren, Sean Cacioppo, Tierney Cacioppo, Brie (Willett) Chandler, Landon Willett; five great grandchildren, Kamryn Cacioppo, Tristin Pfeifer, Audrey Cacioppo, Braden Cacioppo and Hap Whitaker Chandler.
As the Lord welcomes Merle Braden into His Heavenly Kingdom, His words will be, "Well done, good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:23
