Luke James Braden, age 48, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, January 10, 2026, in Bloomfield, Wisconsin, surrounded by his loving family—his wife, children, parents, in-laws, brothers, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

Luke was born on September 9, 1977, in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, to Arlene and Scott Braden. He grew up in Lyons and attended Lake Geneva area schools, graduating from Badger High School in 1996. Luke thoroughly enjoyed his time at Badger, participating in a wide range of activities including football, wrestling, track, and school plays. Truly a jack of all trades, he embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm and heart.

Luke continued his education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he studied Kinesiology and pursued his passion for education by becoming a physical education teacher. He began his career teaching part-time at Brookwood Middle School and Wheatland Center School, and the following year was hired full-time at Brookwood Middle School. He later moved on to Wilmot High School, where he taught physical education and eventually became Associate Principal after earning his master’s degree from Aurora University.

An avid lover of volleyball, Luke played for UW–Madison’s club team and went on to coach high school volleyball. During his early years as an assistant coach, he helped lead the team to two consecutive state championships. He later became head coach at Wilmot High School. Luke deeply loved education and children and always strove to be a positive influence on everyone he met. Eventually, he returned to where his career began, serving as Principal at Brookwood Elementary School, where he finished his career. He was extremely loved by students, staff, and families alike and was known as a phenomenal leader.

On October 22, 2005, Luke married Pamela Welch in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Together they shared 20 years of marriage and 27 years of friendship and love. Luke was a devoted and proud father to Andrew (18), Blake (16), Ally (14), and Cody (12).

Outside of his professional and family life, Luke enjoyed hunting and fishing and was a member of the Sons of the American Legion. He was always eager to share his knowledge and help others learn. There truly wasn’t much Luke couldn’t do. His compassion, warmth, hugs, and unforgettable smile will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Services for Luke will be held on Saturday January 24th, 2026 at 12:00pm at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.  Visitation will be held prior to the service starting at 10:00am.

In honor of Luke's love for his family and his children the family has asked that in lieu of other expressions of sympathy and remembrance that you make a donation in his honor to a fund that will be used to help his own children continue their education as it will be used to help offset their college expenses.  Please make your donation below under crowdfunding. 

To post an online condolence please proceed to the bottom of the page under Guest Book where you can share your thoughts and memories of Luke.

Derrick Funeral Home of Lake Geneva is honored to be assisting the Braden family.