Marion

Braeutigam

 Marion Braeutigam

(February 7, 1933 – September 27, 2026)

Birch Run/Frankenmuth, MI

Marion Braeutigam, 93, of Birch Run/Frankenmuth, Michigan, went home to be with her Lord on Sunday, September 27, 2026, leaving behind a beautiful legacy of faith, family, hard work, and love for others.

Marion was born and raised by her parents, the late E.F. and Milda (Scharrer) Rittmueller. Growing up in the home of a Lutheran schoolteacher and a loving mother, Marion developed a deep and enduring faith that became the foundation of her life. It was a faith she carried with her in everything she did and generously shared through the many roles she treasured throughout her lifetime: devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, sister, friend, and dedicated co-worker.

On June 20, 1953, Marion married Ruben “Bill” Braeutigam at St. Lorenz Lutheran Church. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, family, hard work, and many wonderful friendships.

Marion’s remarkable work ethic began at just 14 years old, when she started working at Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth while still in high school. What began as a job serving guests grew into an extraordinary 55-year career. Over the years, Marion served Zehnder’s in many capacities, eventually becoming known as the “employees’ benefits expert.” She retired in 2002 after more than five decades of loyal service and, to the family’s knowledge, holds the distinction of being Zehnder’s longest-serving employee. Her career was much more than a job. It was another place where Marion built lasting relationships, helped others, and demonstrated the dedication and dependability that were so much a part of who she was.

The early years of Marion and Bill’s marriage were filled with activity and adventure. Bill was both a full-time farmer and drummer with the Herzog Polka Band, and their lives included plenty of travel, music, and friendships made along the way, especially with their beloved Herzog Blue Jackets family.

When motherhood came, Marion embraced it with the same strength and devotion that guided the rest of her life. She was a strong and loving mother who guided her sons through life’s challenges, always leaning on her faith and doing her best to keep them headed in the right direction.

Marion also had a gift for making a house feel like home, and nowhere was that more evident than in her kitchen. She loved trying new recipes, often jotting them down while listening to the “Listen to the Mrs.” program. Her family was especially fortunate to enjoy her amazing homemade bread and glazed cinnamon rolls, treats that became part of the memories and traditions she created for those she loved.

Even with a busy home, family, and career, Marion found time to give back. She faithfully served her church and enjoyed many years of playing euchre and pinochle with friends.

Throughout Marion’s life she worked hard, loved deeply, served faithfully, and cared generously for the people around her. At 93 years old, she leaves behind not simply a lifetime of memories, but a legacy carried forward by the family and friends whose lives are better because she was part of them.

While her family will deeply miss her presence, her recipes, her stories, her wisdom, and undoubtedly her reminders to “behefdich”, they celebrate a life incredibly well lived and take comfort knowing that the faith Marion carried throughout her life has now brought her home.

Surviving are her three sons; Ken “Benny” (Sandy) Braeutigam of Saginaw, Randy (Marie) Braeutigam of Birch Run and Arnold “Arnie” (Debbie) Braeutigam of Midland. Grand children Mathew (Alicia) Braeutigam, Trina (fiancée Jason Kirchner) Huffman, Tom (Justine) Braeutigam, Kari (Ray) Daenzer, Brad (Jen) Braeutigam, Kristen (Andy) Opperman, Jill (Dan) Zeddies and 15 great-grandchildren. Sister Eunice (John) Drew, Sister-in-law Jeanne Braeutigam and many nieces and nephews. Special thank you to Marion’s caregiver Ellen.

Marion was preceded in death by parents, EF and Milda Rittmueller, husband Ruben “Bill” William Braeutigam, brothers and sister-in-laws Walter & Arlene Rittmueller, Gilbert & Irma Rittmueller, Frank & Ruth Rittmueller, Dr. Gus Braeutigam, Carolyn & Herbert Palmreuter, Norman & Esther Braeutigam, Milda & Alvin Block, Fred & Milda Braeutigam, Lorine & Lawrence Pagels, sister-in-law Marilyn Braeutigam, nephew Gene Rittmueller, and grandson-in-law Adrian Huffman.

Funeral Service will take place on Monday, October 5, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Lorenz Lutheran Church, 1030 W. Tuscola, Frankenmuth, Michigan. Burial to follow in St. Lorenz Cemetery.

Marion’s family will receive visitors at the church from 9:30 a.m. until time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to St. Lorenz Lutheran Church Beautification or the St. Lorenz Lutheran Church Media Ministry.