Donald "Pete" Brahm

Niverville-Donald "Pete" Brahm, a Valentine's baby, entered into eternal life at the Hospice Inn, surrounded by his loving family and welcomed into heaven by his son, Donald, who had patiently waited 56 years for the arrival of the best dad ever.

Always wearing a Marine Corps hat, shirt, or jacket, Pete embodied the belief that "Once a Marine, Always a Marine." He served proudly in Vietnam as part of a unique counterinsurgency initiative called the Combined Action Program (CAP), in which a small platoon of Marines was embedded within local villages. His name is forever honored on a brick at the National Museum of the Marine Corps.

Upon returning from Vietnam, Pete married the love of his life. Together, they built two homes, where they raised their two children. An active and dedicated member of his community, Pete was a lifelong member of the Niverville Fire Department, a charter member of the Kinderhook Elks, a member of the Kinderhook Lake Association, and a proud member of the Valatie Rod and Gun Club. He worked for over 40 years as a railroad man.

Known for his strength, Pete had a lifelong passion for powerlifting. You could find him in his basement gym every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday, pushing his limits. When he wasn't pumping iron, he was out on the golf course. He never missed his children's-and later, his grandchildren's-sporting events, always cheering proudly from the sidelines.

Pete is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Rosemary "Mame"; his children, Peter (Colleen) and Heather (Sid) Ball; and his beloved grandsons, Donovan, Garrett, and Toby Jace. He is also survived by his siblings, Jim, David, and Diane; his nieces and nephews; and many dear friends. In addition to his son, Pete was predeceased by his parents, Anthony and Florence Brahm, and his sisters, Cheryl and Beverly Bergerson.

The family extends special thanks to those who cared for Pete: Dr. Sullenberger of Capital Cardiology; Dr. Ritchie Parrotta of Wynantskill Family Medicine; the nurses, doctors, and staff of St. Peter's Hospital, floor 6BF; and the extraordinary team at the Hospice Inn.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the family on Sunday, August 17, 2025 from 3-6pm, at the W.J. Lyons, Jr. Funeral Home, 1700 Washington Avenue, Rensselaer. A funeral home service and military funeral honors will be bestowed immediately following at 6pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Hospice Inn at St. Peter's Hospital or to an Alzheimer's/Dementia charity of your choice.