Richard Brayton

Richard Henry Brayton, 96, faithful husband and father, left this earth on Saturday, January 3, 2026. He was born September 18, 1929 in Oshkosh, WI, the son of Adelbert and Lillian (Kolb) Brayton.

He had fond memories and many stories to tell of growing up in Oshkosh and spending time with his best friend, Jack, and older brothers, with many adventures down by the lake. Richard graduated from Oshkosh High School in 1948 and went on to enlist in the Army. His assignments included serving as a Private First Class with the 37th Field Artillery Battalion in Fort Lewis, WA from August 1948 to August 1949, and next traveling to Japan and Korea, serving as a Corporal in Korea with the 430th Engineers Construction Battalion from October 1950 to December 1951 with Honorable Discharge. He was especially proud of being selected as the Commanding General’s Orderly while at Fort Lewis.

Richard met his future wife Elizabeth when she moved to Oshkosh to attend business college, and they were married on November 16, 1957 at St. Peter Catholic Church in Oshkosh. After several moves for Richard’s jobs, the couple settled in Appleton to raise their family, and then later moved to Neenah where they resided for 35 years. They were blessed with 66 years of marriage and made many beautiful memories during that time.

After retiring from Kimberly-Clark, Richard worked at the airport in Appleton and volunteered, alongside his wife, at the EAA Museum in Oshkosh. Richard and Elizabeth traveled throughout the United States, exploring the country from coast to coast. He and Elizabeth were members of St. Gabriel’s Parish in Neenah.

He participated in the Old Glory Honor Flight to Washington D.C. in June 2013 and was accepted for the Return to Korea mission in May 2020 in commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the Korean War.

Richard liked to stay busy and was happiest outdoors, tinkering in the garage or yard, or spending time by the lake or ocean, or simply taking a walk. He took pride in his personal appearance and gracious manners. He remained active well into his 90’s which along with his humor and wit undoubtedly contributed to a long and full life. Richard was truly young in spirit until his final days.

Richard will be deeply missed by his three children: Jon (Nancy), Jamie (Mitch), and Jana (Jerry); grandchildren Spencer (Jamie), Seth, Danyelle, and Kerrie; great-grandchildren Everett and Eloise; brother-in-law Bob and nieces and nephews. He is now reunited with his dear wife, Elizabeth, who preceded him in death on July 30, 2024 and who he missed very much, as well as his parents and siblings.

Be present for each other. It’s a gift.

Private services will be held at Westgor Funeral Home, 205 W. Doty Ave, Neenah, on Tuesday, January 13th.