Anthony Scott Bratsch

Anthony "Tony" Bratsch, 46, of Benson, formerly of Willmar, peacefully passed away while holding his parents' hands at Essentia Health in Fargo after a short illness.

His memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 26, at Rock of Life Church in Willmar. A recording of the service will be available on the church's website.  Visitation will be from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. Friday at the church. Arrangements are with Harvey Anderson & Johnson Funeral Homes.

Anthony Scott Bratsch was born on February 18, 1980, and was later adopted by Darvin "Butch" and Karen (Schemmel) Lefever. He grew up in Willmar and was active in Boy Scouts. He graduated from Willmar High School in 1998.

Tony worked at Godfather's Pizza in Willmar for a number of years. He later moved to Kerkhoven and then to Benson, where he worked at Burger King.

Tony was active in many church groups throughout his life. He was baptized at First Baptist Church in Willmar and later attended Bethel Baptist Church and the Evangelical Free Church in Kerkhoven.

Tony enjoyed visiting with anyone and loved making people smile. He was often one of the first to send birthday wishes to family and friends. He enjoyed writing poetry, riding his bike, growing vegetables, fishing, watching movies, and caring for his lawn. He also enjoyed playing games, including cards, Rummikub, and pool on his phone. Tony loved food and enjoyed creating new recipes. His grandpa's Christmas sausage, sweet corn, and popcorn were always among his favorite foods, but his ultimate favorite was ice cream.

Tony is survived by his parents, Karen (Barry) Lefever and Butch Bratsch; his brothers, Jesse Lefever, Jacob (Jaden) Lefever, John Lefever, James Lefever, and Carter Lefever; his sisters, Katie (Booner) Evenson, Maggie (Matt) Olson, Caitlin (Will) Freberg, Jazmyn Lefever, and Charlie Lefever; and his biological siblings, Kelly Steinbrink, Mike Steinbrink, and Erin Harsch. Also surviving are his grandparents: Glennys Schemmel, Bill and Lisa Bratsch, Karen Schroeder, and Phares Lefever; many aunts and uncles; cousins; nieces and nephews; and grandnieces and grandnephews.

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