Stephen L. Braegger

Stephen L. Braegger 79, of Grafton passed away Wednesday September 23, 2026 at University Hospital in Cleveland following a brief battle with an aggressive lung cancer. He was born in Elyria where he was a 1965 Elyria High School graduate. Stephen graduated from Oklahoma State University School of Technical Training in Okmulgee, OK with a degree in Building Construction in 1968. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy on July 1, 1968 and was stationed at Camp Campbell, Davisville, RI., Puerto Rico, and in Vietnam; as a proud Navy SeeBee he built bridges in Vietnam. Stephen worked as a Union construction carpenter, and built bridges from West Virginia, Michigan, and Ohio until his retirement in 2000. He was an active and proud member of The American Legion Post#12, VFW Post #1079, and Elyria United Polish Club. Stephen was a proud babysitter of his grandchildren who always showed up; and never missed an event. He was always willing to help his friends, and will be loved and missed by all who knew him. Survivors include his loving wife of fifty years; Deborah (nee: Malanowski), treasured father of Stephanie Chavalia (Greg) and Stacey Vince (Jeremy). Stephen was the beloved Papa of five grandchildren; Evan, Isaac, Zachary, Ryan, and Emma. Loving Great Papa to Waylon. Dearest brother of Sally Amabile (John) of Texas. He will be fondly remembered by his brother in laws; John Malanowski (Lisa), Ken Malanowsli (Laura), and cherished a friend who he considered as a brother; Jim Fada; and his adored four legged best friend; Bailey. The family will receive friends from 4-7 PM on Monday September 28, 2026 at The Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd. Elyria, OH 44035 (440)322-4626 where the American Legion Post# 12 will render Honors at 7:00 PM following visitation. Graveside services will be 12:15 PM Tuesday September 29, 2026 at The Ohio Western Reserve Cemetery 10175 Rawiga Rd. Rittman, OH 44270. Please meet inside the main cemetery gate at the Visitor Center. The U.S. Navy will provide full military honors. At Stephen’s request memorial contributions in his memory may be sent to The American Legion Post #12 393 Ohio St. Elyria, OH 44035 or to The Valor Home 2726 Caroline Ave. Lorain, OH 44055. Online condolences to the family may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com