William C. Braker

On December 25, 2023, of Washington Twp.  Age 91.  Beloved husband of the late Giovanna (nee Matone).  Devoted father of Patrick (Carol), Joann, and the late William Braker.  Bill is also survived by his daughter-in-law Sara Braker (Andy).  Loving grandfather of Ian (Naomi), Carly, Sophie, and Katie.  Loved by many nieces and nephews.

To say Bill Braker lived a full life would be a gross understatement. In his ninety one years, Bill was a decorated US Army Soldier, a Federal Narcotics Agent, and a private investigator. He was an active member of his parish, and a 4th degree Knight of Columbus. Bill was also a loving husband, father, and grandfather.

Bill joined the Army at eighteen years old and trained to be a paratrooper. His first jump into combat was also his last. He was wounded, earning the first of his two Purple Hearts. After the war, Bill became an Army Reservist. One night in 1957, he met a red head, Jeanne Matone, at a dance and asked her to marry him one week later. Jeanne was the love of his life. They were together for fifty five years, until Jeanne’s death, and they welcomed three kids: Bill Jr., Pat, and Joann.

Bill was always quick to brag about his children, two Navy officers and a schoolteacher, but even faster to brag about his four grandchildren. As he used to love to say, “If I knew being a grandfather was this much fun, I’d have done that first.” Bill was very proud of his family and of his service to his country.

Family and friends are invited to attend his viewing Saturday 8:45-10:45 AM at St. Charles Borromeo Roman Catholic Church, 176 Stagecoach Road, Washington Twp.  Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 AM.  Interment, Gloucester County Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Williamstown.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill’s memory may be made to Autism Speaks  or to Dysautonomia International