Magnus ""Max"" Braunagel

Magnus (""Max"") Braunagel was born in a German community in North Dakota in 1925. He was raised on a farm during the Depression and Dust Bowl years and rode his horse to a one-room schoolhouse, where he learned English as a second language. A scholar from even a young age, Max left home to attend high school in Bismarck, North Dakota, where he lived with his aunt.

Max was drafted into the army immediately after graduating from high school, serving in WWII. He was honorably discharged six months later due to injuries sustained. Soon thereafter, he met a nurse named Mildred (""Millie"") at a soldiers' dance, and they were married within 6 months. Max and Millie went on to enjoy 74 years of marriage, and they raised eight children (Donna, Lynn, Arleen, Sharon, Leon, Carol, Vernon and Duane).

Max went to college on the GI Bill. He earned a BS, MS, and PhD in engineering from the University of North Dakota, Notre Dame, and Purdue. A pioneer of his time, Max spent his early career researching and developing key patents in jet engines and intercontinental ballistic missiles, many of which are still used to this day. He then returned to academia, where he spent 25 years teaching engineering and mathematics at Regis University. His office door was always open, and he helped shape a new generation of students as both their teacher and mentor. He published his teaching materials in seven volumes, with an additional three volumes of unpublished material.

After retirement, Max and Millie became avid travelers and explored all 50 states, Canada, and Mexico in their RV. They enjoyed weekly square dancing and developed a close circle of lifelong friends through this activity. Max, with several close friends, participated in the Honor Guard at burials of veterans at Fort Logan National Cemetery. Throughout the years, Max acquired a complete shop of tools and was happiest building, tinkering and fixing things.

Max is survived by his younger brother, Robert, his wife, Millie, all eight children, 21 grandchildren, and an expanding number of great-grandchildren.

Max will be buried in Fort Logan. When the restrictions associated with the current pandemic are lifted, a celebration of his life will be held and his grave site at Fort Logan will be accorded full military honors.

Donations in his name may be given to The American Legion, Post #1187, P.O. Box 982, Castle Rock, CO 80104.