The Dietmar Braune and Rita Schrantz Endowment Fund was established in memory of the kind, thoughtful, and fun-loving man that Rita Schrantz knew and loved for more than two decades. Braune, 64, died suddenly in January of a suspected heart attack.

Schrantz, of Altoona, describes her German-born fiancé as a fun, colorful person and a good, kind man who would drop anything to help a friend. She set up the fund as a tribute to him. "Deet", as he was known to family and friends, was highly respected in his field and actively involved in his community.

Before joining CESA 10 as an energy consultant, Braune worked at Xcel Energy and Ayres Associates. He was also involved in civic organizations, including the Sunrise Exchange Club, where he and Schrantz met, United Way, and the Industrial Development Corporation in Chippewa Falls. Braune and Schrantz own The Silver Bear, a home decor shop in Holcombe, and he was also active in the Lake Holcombe Resort & Business Association. In addition, he was instrumental in establishing the Youth of Lake Holcombe Endowment Fund- also through the Community Foundation.

The Community Foundation of Chippewa County was established to build permanent charitable resources that benefit the people, communities, and nonprofit organizations throughout the County. Donors who choose to endow their gifts help strengthen the community while creating a legacy that lasts forever. Grants are awarded in the name of the endowment fund, preserving the designated charitable intentions and honoring the donor's commitment to causes they care about most.