Liz Ann Braun

MADISON - Liz Ann Braun, beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2026, with her cherished husband and son at her side. Born on June 18, 1953, in the close-knit community of Sheboygan, Wis., Liz was the beloved daughter of the late Leo and Patricia Lorenz. Her life was a testament to kindness, love, and devotion, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Liz's journey began in Sheboygan, where she graduated from Sheboygan South High School in 1971. It was in this lakeside city that she met the love of her life, Dan Braun. The couple wed on May 26, 1979, and built a beautiful life together, filled with laughter, love, and countless memories. Their greatest joy came with the birth of their son, Brian, in 1987, who would become the center of Liz's world.

Liz had an innate zest for life, which was reflected in her many interests and hobbies. An avid cyclist, camper, and hiker, she found peace and joy in the great outdoors and took every opportunity to embrace nature's beauty. Her enthusiasm for sporting events and social gatherings was infectious, and her radiant smile became a beacon of positivity and warmth. With Liz it truly didn’t matter what the activity was, more that she was with the friends and family she loved.

While cycling began as a family activity, it turned into a lifestyle. Dan and Liz went on many trips around the country (and beyond) exploring the open roads and finding new bike paths. She embraced her title of “Stoker” when Dan and her got their own tandem bicycle, an addition that kept their hearts together on long rides.

Liz worked a variety of jobs before and after she was a stay-at-home mom with Brian. Before retiring, she was a small business owner and would do bookkeeping for her clients. She would use the word “clients,” but everyone knew they had become friends that she enjoyed seeing. She excelled in this position due to her extroverted nature and math/financial skills, which are personality traits that rarely mix together.

Liz was diagnosed with uterine cancer in the late 2000’s. Because it was caught early, she was able to become cancer free following a hysterectomy and was proud to be a “cancer survivor.” In her later years, Liz faced primary-progressive aphasia with a stubborn determination. Regardless of the struggle, her truly giving and thoughtful heart was ever present. Though communication became difficult, her loving heart remained constant, and she found new ways to connect with those around her until her last breath. This could be seen with the exceptional day she had for Brian and Michelle’s wedding in July 2025.

Liz is survived by her devoted husband of 47 years, Dan; her loving son, Brian, and daughter-in-law, Michelle; and her dear sisters, Maureen Koenig (Dale) and Patricia “Bo” Lorenz-Meyer (Steve); father-in-law, John Braun; in-laws, Debbie Anders (Don), Bob Braun (Maggie), Dave (Gina), Ellen Vollrath (Musanda) and Carl Vollrath (Lynn): and many nieces and nephews.  

Though she was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Patricia Lorenz, their legacy lives on in the love and compassion Liz shared with everyone around her. She was also preceded in death by her mothers-in-law, Janice Braun and Ruth Vollrath Braun.

The family would like to give their deepest gratitude to the staff at Oak Park Place and SSM Hospice for all their tender care and love for Liz once she had moved to assisted living. Your hearts have left a mark on our souls that will last forever. The family would also like to thank all the friends and family that took time to visit Liz. We know she remembered most, if not all, of her guests. She treasured the time with loved ones and cherished every visit. We are eternally grateful.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at CATHEDRAL OF ST. BERNARD PARISH CENTER, 2438 Atwood Ave., Madison, at 11 a.m. on Monday, September 21, 2026, with Father Michael Radowicz presiding. Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. on Sunday, September 20, 2026, and also at the cathedral from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the Mass on Monday.
 

Liz’s memory will live on in the quiet rustle of the open road, the warmth of a shared game, and the profound love she so freely gave.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to National Aphasia Association in memory of Liz Braun. (https://aphasia.org/ways-to-donate/). Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420