Milton True Brainerd Jr.

Milton True Brainerd, Jr., 78, formally of Sioux City passed away Monday, July 20, 2020 in Woodbury, Minnesota. 

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 A.M. Thursday, July 23, 2020 at Holy Cross/Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church.  Visitation will be Wednesday, July 22, 2020 from 4-8 P.M. with the family present from 6-8 P.M. and a Vigil Service at 7:00 P.M. at Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel.  Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery.  

Milton was born June 7, 1942 in Sioux City, the son of Milton True Brainerd Sr. and Melletta Catherine Reeves.  He graduated from Heelan High School in 1960.  Milton enlisted in the Air National Guard and then during the Vietnam War he activated with the United States Airforce.  After his commitment was over, he then enlisted back into the Air National Guard, being honorably discharged after 12 years of service. 

Milton married Irene “Babe” Margaret (Schunneman) Pinkston on July 26, 1980 in Sioux City.  Irene preceded Milton in death on November 23, 2013.

Milton worked as a painter and contractor and owned and operated Brainerd Painting for 54 years.  He was a member of the American Legion and lifetime member of the Painter’s Union #214.  He was a member of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. 

In 2017, Milt moved to The Waters in Oakdale, MN to be closer to his daughter and her family. They enjoyed years of going to sporting events and spending time together. Milt was known at The Waters as “The Gentle Giant,” always willing to lend a hand when he could. He kept everyone laughing with his quick wit and one liners, that will forever be remembered by his family and friends.  Milt enjoyed spending time with his family, watching sports, and completing projects with his son-in-law. 

Survivors include his daughter Jennifer (Patrick) McLoughlin of Cottage Grove, MN; grandchildren:  Patrick “True” McLoughlin, Braden McLoughlin, and Ella McLoughlin; two brothers:  Michael Brainerd of Sioux City and Dennis (Pam) Brainerd of Sioux City; a sister Mary Anne Chicoine of Colorado Springs, CO; and a sister-in-law Mary (Kenny) Johnson of Sioux City, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Irene, his maternal and paternal grandparents, a sister Judith Mercer, and a brother-in-law Rene Chicoine.