In loving memory of

Lynn R. Braunewell
January 3, 1949 - July 2, 2021

Lynn R. Braunewell, of Maple Glen, died Friday, July 2, 2021, in the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital Philadelphia after a sudden, brief illness. She was 72 years old.

Born in Abington, PA, she was the daughter of the late Ernest G. and Eleanor (nee Badham) Rieker.

Lynn was a graduate of Abington High School Class of '66 and West Chester University, where she received her undergraduate degree and her Master's Degree in Education. She also received a Master's Degree in Nutrition from Immaculata University.
Lynn taught physical education and health for 35 years in the Colonial School District at Colonial Middle School and served as the Field Hockey and Lacrosse Coach before retiring in 2006.

Lynn and her husband Bill traveled the world and loved spending time with their grandchildren. She was an avid reader, tennis player, golfer, biker and hiker.

Lynn is survived by her beloved husband of 42 years, William H. Braunewell. She is the devoted mother of Bruce W. Braunewell, his wife Elizabeth of Ambler, and Robert C. Braunewell of Brighton, MA. Lynn is the cherished grandmother of Stephen W. Braunewell and Emily E. Braunewell, both of Boston, MA; she is also survived by her brother E. Van Rieker and his wife Janice of North Wales, PA

Relatives and friends may call Saturday, July 10, 2021 from 9:00 to 11:00 AM at the Anton B. Urban Funeral Home, 1111 S. Bethlehem Pike, Ambler, with Words of Remembrance at 11:00 AM. Interment will be at Forest Hills Cemetery in Huntingdon Valley.

Remembrances in her name to Cancer Support Community Greater Philadelphia (aka Gilda's Club), 200 Kirk Road Warminster, PA 18974 www.cancersupportphiladelphia.org/ would be appreciated by the family.

Tributes and photos may be shared at www.UrbanFuneralHome.com

Tributes

Dee Proietto (Williams) wrote on Jul 10, 2021:

"I am heart broken to hear my wonderful junior high coach passed away. I wanted to see her again and we never could make it happen. I am so sorry for your loss and will be praying. She was my favorite coach and brought out the best in me as a teenaged girl. ??You Miss Reiker?.I will miss you so much! Dee Proietto (Williams)"

Janet Cook wrote on Jul 10, 2021:

"Lynn's life was undeniable proof that great things come in small packages. Lynn's love of Family was unwavering. She was enthusiastic, compassionate and caring - truly inspirational. May she rest in peace and we pray that Bill and her Family cherish all their great memories of Lynn. God Bless UsAll. Janet Cook & John Trosino"

Dolores & Dan Mershon wrote on Jul 10, 2021:

"Our sincere sympathy goes out to Lynn's family. She was such a positive and uplifting person. It was truly a joy knowing her. "

Maria and Arno Witt wrote on Jul 8, 2021:

"We were extremely devastated and surprised to learn of Lynn?s passing. It is difficult to fathom that the close relationship which had developed between us over the last 25 Years has come to such a sudden end. However, we hope to continue our friendship with Bill and fill the void left by Lynn?s absence with the wonderful memories that evolved during our close friendship. At first, the catalyst was tennis. Lynn and Bill were avid competitors but knew how to win without antagonizing their opponents or themselves. After several matches and learning that our skills were comparable, we played mixed doubles at least once a week, usually on Sunday mornings. It became an institution. The unbelievable outcome was, after playing mixed doubles all this time, it never affected our marriages nor our friendship. We discussed bad play or shots but never focused on who was responsible. Lynn?s personality traits taught us many things on how to get along with others. She never found fault with anyone (not even when Bill missed an easy shot), was credible, honest (the ball was always in when close to the line), compassionate, and humble. Oh, she never uttered a curse word so our learning was a little short in this regard. It did not take long when mutual activities expanded to traveling. We enjoyed trips to the Canadian Rockies, Italy, France, China, Ireland, Germany, and many local ones. Dining was also a favorite past time of ours. This category was always a financial advantage for Bill because Lynn possessed strict dietary control and was happy with child portions and did not drink nor smoke ? ever. LYNN, you were an effective teacher in that you taught by example and we were lucky to be the beneficiaries and physically, you were a small person but the void you left is gigantic and will be difficult to fill. Wherever you are going, keep hitting the ball as accurately and hard as you did against us.! "

Carie Spampinato Litz wrote on Jul 7, 2021:

"I was so sad to hear this news. Lynn was such a wonderful part of Colonial Middle School and I fell lucky to have had a chance to be her student and later to teach with her. Her energy was really something special. Mr. Braunewell and family, you will be in my thoughts and prayers. "

Maryln Saxman wrote on Jul 7, 2021:

"I met Lynn at the beginning of our 2nd year at West Chester. We shared many classes in the next 3 years and lived on the same form years. We were in each other?s weddings. We lost contact for awhile but reconnected about 15 years ago and I am so glad we did. Lynn was surrounded in love by Bill and her sons. She was incredibly proud of her grandchildren. She loved teaching but happily embraced retirement. She was a supportive and loving friend; very smart and funny, and I will miss her in my life. "

Phyllis Lindquist wrote on Jul 6, 2021:

"I met Lynn in 1966 when we were in an off- campus apartment with 5 others. We remained friends over the years and I will never forget her warm personality and kindness to everyone. I will miss talking with her and hearing her so proudly talk about Bill, her sons, their spouses, her grandchildren, and of course Lexi, her latest berner! This is such a loss to all of her family and friends. My condolences go out to Bill and the rest of her family. She will remain in our hearts forever. "

Carolyn and Tom Shaner wrote on Jul 5, 2021:

"We were so proud to call Lynn our friend. She had a knack for listening, understanding and always wanting to help others in any way she could. A competent 'lefty' athlete, she excelled in whatever she chose to try. Lynn was a member of our tennis contract group for years and added fun, skill and lots of motivation to win. Equally joyful evenings ensued when we went with Bill and Lynn to a movie or dinner. She and I both loved to bike or run before school (despite our husbands' objections) and often shared tips on the best neighborhood routes. Her ready smile and easy laughter will echo in our memory forever. Lynn's deep devotion to Bill and the entire family was obvious to everyone as she freely shared their latest accomplishments proudly. So fitting to see the beautiful picture of her holding one of their beloved puppies. The world has lost a gentle soul who will never be forgotten. We love you dear Lynn. Carolyn and Tom Shaner"

Dee Proser wrote on Jul 5, 2021:

"Lynn has been my dear friend from elementary and junior high school, playing field hockey together through rooming together in college as well as maid of honor at our wedding. Lynn's optimism was contagious. Kindness, non judgmental, full of laughter and fun are just a few of her lovely traits. She loved her husband Bill so much I would tell her she was the best wife I know. We are all better for her! Dee Proser"

Dee Proser wrote on Jul 5, 2021:

"Lynn has been my dear friend from elementary and junior high school, playing field hockey together through rooming together in college as well as maid of honor at our wedding. Lynn's optimism was contagious. Kindness, non judgmental, full of laughter and fun are just a few of her lovely traits. She loved her husband Bill so much I would tell her she was the best wife I know. We are all better for her! Dee Proser"