Evelyn Irene Brackey

Evelyn Brackey passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 12 at Good Samaritan Society in Albert Lea surrounded by her family members. She was 98 years old.

Evelyn Wendell was born in Manly, Iowa on June 16, 1926, to Oliver and Catherine (Lennon) Wendell. She began her schooling in Adams, Minnesota before the family moved to Albert Lea. She attended St. Theodore Catholic School, graduating from Albert Lea High School in 1944. Her parochial upbringing strongly influenced her adult life. In addition to being a stalwart example for her children, she was known for her selflessness and honest advice. She had a quick wit and left many smiling at her wry on point remarks.

Evelyn married Arlan Brackey on January 23, 1946. To this union, seven children were born. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Her family was her most Important priority.

Evelyn loved attending her children’s sporting activities and was famous for her homemade desserts: hand apple pie (the ballplayers’ favorite) and pumpkin bars. They would often congregate in her home where the treats were offered.

Her hobbies included bowling and dancing in her early years. She was a member of St. Theo’s ladies’ guild and enjoyed coffee get-togethers with her neighbors. She always put her faith and her Savior first and foremost in her decision making. She seldom missed an opportunity to attend church services with her family.

Evelyn is survived by her children, Cheryl (Bernie) Hagen, Karen (Bob) Engelstad, Ron (Kim) Brackey, Wayne Brackey, Dave Brackey and Mary Brackey. In addition, there are ten grandchildren: Mark (Maria Elena) Hagen, Shannon Anderson, Kelly Beaudry, Dustin Anderson, Beau and Ethan Brackey, Jessica, Heather and Alison Brackey, Jamie Green. There are four great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Arlan, daughter, Katherine, parents, Oliver and Catherine Wendell and in-laws Alfred and Mabel Brackey. In addition, she outlived her sisters: Anna Mae, Jean, Maxine and Kay. We would be remiss if we forgot to mention her special friend and added sister, Donna Meirose.

The family wishes to thank the devoted staff at Good Samaritan Society that took such wonderful care of our mother for these past years and the Mayo Hospice Team for their loving attention.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, February 8 at the Bayview Freeborn Chapel, Albert Lea, Minnesota beginning at 10:30 with a time of gathering held one half hour prior to service. Pastor Kent Otterman will officiate. Interment will be at Saint Theodore Cemetery

May God grant her the serenity of His Kingdom. Rest in peace, dear Mother.