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A Life Well-Lived: Celebrating Jerome V. Braaten
Jerome V. Braaten, affectionately known as Jerry, passed away at the age of 95 at the VA Medical Center in Fargo, ND, on August 5, 2025. His remarkable life journey began in Watford City, ND, where he was born on December 15, 1929. The son of Morris and Sofie Braaten, Jerry grew up in a large family, experiencing both the simplicity of rural life and the challenges that come with it.
From Humble Beginnings to Military Service
Jerry’s early education took place at a one-room schoolhouse in Arnegard, ND. In 1952, he took a significant step that would shape his future by enlisting in the United States Air Force. He served as a flight line mechanic until 1956, a period he reflected on with pride. After his discharge, Jerry briefly lived in San Francisco, where he honed his skills in aircraft technology.
A Career Dedicated to Service and Family
After moving to Fargo for further education at Wahpeton State School of Science, Jerry met Rachel Roscoe, and they were married in December 1959. Their journey took them to various places, including Billings, MT, before eventually running a TV repair shop back in Watford City. Jerry dedicated the last 28 years of his career to serving as an electronic technician at the Agricultural Research Station in Sidney, MT.
Retirement: Adventures and Memories
During retirement, Jerry and Rachel embraced adventure, traveling across the United States through bus trips and river barge cruises. They made their way to Moorhead in 2010 where they became part of the Touchmark community, forming valuable friendships.
Legacy of Kindness and Family Values
Jerry was not just a husband and father; he was a pillar of strength whose qualities—patience, hard work, and empathy—will live on in the hearts of his family. Survived by Rachel, their four children, nine grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, his legacy is rich and filled with love. A memorial service will be held on August 14 at the Messiah Lutheran Church in Fargo, where friends and family will gather to honor his admirable life.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to his beloved church or to the Veterans Honor Flight of ND/MN, reflecting Jerry's deep commitment to his community and his fellow veterans.
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