Joseph W. Brainard

Joseph W. Brainard, 93, of Perrysburg, passed away peacefully Tuesday, June 25, 2024 at Hospice of Northwest Ohio surrounded by his loving family. Joe was born April 17, 1931 in Maumee, Ohio to Joseph E. and Laura M. (Parker) Brainard. He earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Toledo. On November 19, 1949, he married Elizabeth Gilson and they spent 71 years together until she passed on May 11, 2021.

Joe served the community as a police officer for 6 years, and a bailiff with the Perrysburg Municipal court for 28 years. During this time, he also served as a probation officer. After his retirement in 2001, he continued to serve the community by working for Browning Masonic Community.

Joe was a life long member of many organizations, most notably the Masonic Community as a member of the Phoenix Lodge #123 where he held the position of Grand Master in the past. Joe enjoyed time with the Zenobia Shrine and Jesters as well as being a member and former Grand Exulted Ruler of the Maumee Elks #1850.

In addition to these organizations, Joe enjoyed filling his time by spending it with family, friends and colleagues. His favorite pastimes included golfing and enjoying some bluegrass or big band music while completing his honey do lists. In his later years of full retirement, Joe and Betty enjoyed traveling with the Zenobia Campers group to many different locations. Joe had a big love for life and his family until the very end.

Joe is survived by his loving family; TerryAnne (Adam) Freistuhler of Perrysburg, OH, Thomas (Marianne) Brainard of Perrysburg, OH, Meagan (Brainard) Dennis of Perrysburg, OH, Joseph T. (Ashley) Brainard of Haskins, OH, Emma Dennis of Perrysburg, OH; siblings, Thelma “Thumper” Hofmann and Edward (Jacqueline) Brainard; sister-in-law, Diana Oliver and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Along with his wife, Betty, he was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Rose M. Bochaczenko, Ronald Brainard, Carol McPeek, Laura Davis, Joan McClusky, Donald Brainard and brothers-in-law, Donald Hofmann and Gordon “Gordy” Oliver.

Friends and family will be received July 10th from 2-7 p.m. at Witzler-Shank-Walker Funeral Home, 222 E. South Boundary Street, Perrysburg (419-874-3133) where funeral services will be held July 11th at 11 a.m. Burial will be private. Condolences may be made online to the family at www.walkerfuneralhomes.com.

Please consider Memorial contributions in Joe’s name to Browning Masonic Community, 8883 Browning Dr. Waterville, Ohio 43556.