Steven W. Braker

Steven William Braker, age 76, laid down his brushes, shuttered his cameras, and slipped peacefully into the scenery of his life’s work on September 7, 2025.

Steve was the son of William (Bill) and Irene (Stefaniak) Braker and the beloved younger brother of his doting sisters, Billie Joan (Richard) Walleen, Susan (Richard) Neubauer, and Marjorie (Bill Long) Braker. He was the proud father of daughters Marni Braker, Heather (Mark) Vinall, Keely (Patrick Shaw) Hogan-Braker, and Erin (Ricky Dow) Hogan-Braker. He treasured his role as grandfather to Jessica, McKenna, Brynn, Derek, Ryan Irene, Lucy, Max, and Jack, and as great-grandfather to Jaxon, Olive, and Bodhi. Steve’s love also extended to his many cherished nieces, nephews, and friends near and far.

A lifelong artist, Steve devoted his career to teaching, photography, and painting. He worked with oils, pastels, and watercolors on canvas and paper. He was a sportsman, a dreamer, and a builder of dreams, recognized as a visionary statesman of the arts community in Menomonie, Dunn County, and across the country. A master of lighting, set design, and darkroom techniques, Steve photographed world-class models, striking landscapes, and created innovative catalog and product photography for national retailers.

His unending charm will be deeply missed and gratefully remembered. Steve had a gift for noticing the beauty and wonder in the world around us—from the moonlight dancing on a drop of dew to the ripples in the sand where the Hay River current met the point—and he always took time to share those visions through his eyes.

Mr. Perfect and his family extend heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Vita Care Living for the exceptional love and care Steve received over the past few years, and to the St. Croix Hospice team for their extraordinary compassion. Your devoted care, presence, and humor brought comfort and peace to his days and to our family. Special thanks are extended to Cheri, Brittany, Tori, Krista, Mary, Ella, Raven, Ashley, Nikki, Jasmine, Jazzy, Estella, Brooklyn, Kadence, Kia, Kareem, Annette, Jessica, Chloe, and Nicole.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 27, 2025, from 1–4 PM at the Mabel Tainter in Menomonie. All are welcome—please mark your calendars. Come dressed to impress, Braker style, in honor of Steve’s creative and gentlemanly spirit.

In lieu of flowers, Steve’s daughters ask that you honor his legacy by choosing to simply “Be Kind” to one another.

To share a memory, please visit obituaries at www.olsonfuneral.com