James Edward Brao

Brao, James Edward January 24, 2021 Age 82. Beloved husband of Judith (nee Coppola). Loving father of James (Paula) Brao and Stephen Brao. Proud grandfather of Kristen, James, Stephen, David, Maria, Sean, Giacomo "Buddy" and Ava. Dearest brother of the late Thomas Brao. “A graduate of Pershing High school where he met Judi. But prior to graduation, Jim was an All State Baseball and football athlete and won the State football championship in his senior year. His 40 years at Ford Motor Company and Rouge Steel took him from an apprentice electrician upward to a general foreman overseeing all of the skilled trades. While at Rouge Steel, He was personally credited and recognized for saving the life of a co-worker trapped in an ore bridge crane. Jim taught adult community education (dog training) classes for over 3 decades. He explained it to his children this way: I’m not training dogs, I’m training people . Dogs are the easy part. When asked for child rearing advice after the birth of his first grandson, he replied “ Raise him like you would a dog. Be consistent in love and discipline. Consistency is essential”. Although he seldom spoke of his accomplishments, he was well known and loved in the dog training world. Jim was the first and only dog trainer to compete and certify a UD (utility dog) degree with a remarkably stupid breed… the afghan hound. They said it couldn’t be done. So he did it anyway. In 1978 Jim was one of 13 Schutzhund III recipients training and competing the legendary German shepherd “Hakka” He and his dog were the highest rated team in the United States. In 1995, he was the United Schutzhund Club of America’s Gold Metal and Master Gold Metal recipient. Jim continued schutzhund training throughout the years until the Covid pandemic prevented his travel. Jim and Judi built their dream home nearly 40 years ago. Jim retired 22 years ago and lived out his remaining years and final moments in its special bliss. It’s the way he imagined it and it was his reality. He is resting in peace.” Additionally, in lieu of flowers, the family wishes contributions be made to: FAR Therapeutic Arts and Recreation 1669 W. Maple Rd. Birmingham, MI 48009 Website Far-therapy.org (A link for donations in James Brao’s name will be available on their homepage.) Due to the covid 19 pandemic visitation and service are private. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled later in 2021. Interment Van Hoosen Jones cemetery, Rochester Hills,MI. Share memories with the family at their "On-Line Guestbook" @ WujekCalcaterra.com ****Please be advised that social distancing and wearing a face covering is deeply appreciated and is mandated by the State of Michigan****

James Edward Brao

July 27, 1938 - January 24, 2021