Michael was born on October 6, 1953, in Winner, SD. He was the son of Jean and Fred Braley. Mike grew up in Winner and graduated from high school there in 1972. Following his graduation, he was drafted into the Army where he proudly served his country as an MP until his honorable discharge in 1976.

Michael continued with his love of service throughout his professional career, always putting the protection and safety of others above any concern for himself. Michael served as a deputy for the Olmsted County Sheriff’s Department, Rochester, Minnesota, for twenty years. During this time, he was a DARE mentor and instructor, Crime Prevention Officer, and an investigator in the detective division. In 1997, Michael began the second phase of his career as an agent with the Division of Criminal Investigation in Pierre. In this capacity, Michael maintained his passion to protect the innocent and catch the “bad guys.” He considered his fellow officers as both brothers and sons.

Michael’s dedication to his work was second only to his love for his family. Thankful for having shared Mike’s life are his wife, Jane, Pierre, and three sons: Patrick (Jessica), Daniel, and Michael. His love for his wife and sons was clearly expressed through kind gestures toward Jane, his pride in the boys’ accomplishments, and his support for all their efforts.

Michael loved the outdoors and gladly shared his enthusiasm for hunting and fishing with his family and friends. He enjoyed guiding hunters in the Colome area and was always ready to give his hunting and fishing tips to others. Someone else’s success while on the river or in the field brought a ready smile to Mike’s face. He also loved horses and dogs and found joy in training them. Michael’s artistic side was a surprise to some. He was a skilled painter whose creative talents were put to use on projects ranging from posters for hockey to a Candy Land backdrop for senior parent party.

Michael Braley, 54 of Pierre Died on Sunday, April 27, 2008 at St. Mary’s Hospital. Visitation was held 4-7 pm Friday, May 2 at Faith Lutheran Church with a Prayer Service at 7:00 pm. Services were held at 10:30 am on Saturday, May 3 at Faith Lutheran Church with Burial at Riverside Cemetery.

Michael is survived by his wife, Jane; sons: Patrick (Jessica), Daniel, and Michael; brothers: Randy Braley and Keith (Jackie) Braley; step-father Jon (Donna) Hughes, step-brothers: Jon (Susan) Hughes and Jim (Steph) Hughes; and sisters: Nicki (Rob) Willey, Stephany (Dick) Shaheen, Roberta Driscoll, and Kim (Bryan) Hespe. Michael was preceded in death by his mother, Jean Cooper Hughes, his father Fred Braley, and his maternal and paternal grandparents.

Family request memorials in lieu of flowers.