BRAAM, Cpl. NICHOLAS RCD - 1986 - 2013 - Cpl. Nicholas Braam, 26, of CFB Petawawa, Ontario formerly of Hillsborough, NB, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 28th, 2013 at the Pembroke Regional Hospital, with his brother, friends and fellow Dragoons at his side, after a short but courageous battle with cancer. Nicholas was born in Moncton on June 26th, 1986 the son of Harry Braam and Holly (Matheson) MacLeod. Nicholas initially joined the Canadian Armed Forces on February 27, 2006 in the Reserves with the 8th Canadian Hussars (Princess Louise's). On January 31, 2007, Nick transferred tot he Regular Force where he completed his DP1 Reece Crewman course in Gagetown, NB. Upon successfully completing DP1, Nick was posted in June 2007 to The Royal Canadian Dragoons in Petawawa, Ontario, where he remained with D Squadron throughout. Nick served in many roles within D Squadron, including Coyote Driver, Surveillance Operator, Gunner and most recently as the OC's driver. He served in Afghanistan as a Surveillance Operator from September 2008 to April 2009 as part of Joint Task Force Afghanistan Roto 6. Even as a new trooper, his professionalism, job knowledge and great sense of humour made him a highly sought crew member; everyone wanted him on their team. Understanding how the Regiment supported his family during WWII, he was an avid contributor to the Unit and its people. His drive, determination and motivation to accomplish all tasks was notable, and instilled his great sense of humour on his fellow soldiers and friends in the process. Very relaxed and charming, he treated everyone he met as a friend. He enjoyed spending his free time with others, and would do anything to help them when needed. He lifted bad moods almost instantaneously, always having a story or a past life experience to offer. He was a free-spirited and selfless person whose smile was highly contagious. Nick was a tremendous soldier, peer and friend. He will be deeply missed by his father, Harry Braam (Victoria) of Hillsborough; mother, Holly MacLeod (Reg) of PEI; brother, Michael Braam (Rachel) of North Bay, Ontario; Paternal grandmother, Dora Braam of Hillsborough; maternal step grandfather, Leon McPhee of PEI; aunts, Annamarie Sutherland (Cyril) of Lower Coverdale, Marilyn Flewelling (Gerry) of Quispamsis, Beatrice LeBlanc (Clarence) of Fox Creek. He will also be missed by his cousins, Courtney, Hillary, Andrew, Matthew, Garrett and their families; his friends and his fellow Dragoons. He was predeceased by his paternal grandfather, Hank Braam; maternal grandparents, Shirley McPhee and Don Matheson.
He will be resting at the Albert County Funeral Home on Sunday evening from 7 to 9pm. Parish Prayers and a time of sharing memories will be held on Sunday evening at 8:30pm. The funeral mass will be held at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, Riverview, NB on Monday, June 3rd, 2013 at 4:00pm with Father Phil Mulligan and Captain Reverend Alan Mills RCD Regimental Chaplain officiating. Interment will be in the Holy Ghost Catholic Cemetery, Hopewell Hill, NB. Donations to the charity of the donor's choice would be greatly appreciated by the family. Arrangements are in the care of the Albert County Funeral Home, 4130 Route 114, Hopewell Cape, NB, E4H-3K2, (506) 734-2780 www.albertcountyfh.com