Devoted Husband ‘Stood up’ for Wife of 23 Years & Died – His Organs May Save the Lives of Others

Heartbreaking news has struck the Brasel family, as Michael Brasel, a devoted husband and father, tragically lost his life while trying to protect his beloved wife's property. The incident occurred in their front yard in Minnesota while attempting to impede an individual from burglarizing his wife's car.

Michael Brasel is being fondly remembered as a true protector and all-around great man. He was known for his quick wit and fantastic sense of humor and was a loving father to his two sons, Oliver and Miles. Michael had warm, inviting brown eyes and shared an unbreakable bond with his wife, Hilary. He had a deep passion for vintage cars, enjoyed attending car shows, and was fascinated by automotive design in all forms.

Beyond his unwavering commitment to his family, Michael was also a revered coach, who motivated and inspired a multitude of young athletes, leaving an indelible impression on his community. A true connoisseur of music and art, he always knew how to bring a smile to people's faces, using his quick wit to lift spirits and alleviate fears.

In the wake of Michael's passing, his wife Hilary has been left devastated, expressing that she has no idea how to navigate life without him. "Ever the protector and good man he stood up for me with his last effort and breath," she says. The outpouring of love and support from the community serves as a testament to the incredible impact that Michael had on those around him, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

New details have emerged regarding the tragic incident that claimed the life of Michael. According to authorities, just before 7:30 a.m., police received a call reporting a shooting in the peaceful St. Anthony Park neighborhood. When officers arrived on the scene, they discovered Michael with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead approximately 30 minutes later.

The medical examiner's office has since confirmed the cause of death as "multiple gunshot wounds." The community is still grappling with the shock and sadness of this devastating loss, as the investigation into the shooting continues.

In a poignant Facebook post, Hilary shared that she desperately tried to save her beloved husband, performing CPR while their children watched and waited for emergency services to arrive after calling 911. She lamented:

"Never thought I would tell life source that yes Michael would help others with tissue and organ donation. Never thought that today was my last day to have him in my life."

The community has come together to pay their last respects to Michael, the fallen hero, father, and husband who was tragically taken from them. Friends, neighbors, and those who simply cared deeply for Michael have been leaving tributes in his honor, with several families in the neighborhood placing hockey sticks outside their homes as a nod to Michael's love of the sport.

The outpouring of support from the community has been overwhelming, with many expressing their shock and sadness at the loss of Michael. Andrew McNattin, a friend of Michael's, spoke to the impact that he had on those around him, saying, "It really just shows how many people he touched."

Above all else, he was remembered as a loyal and caring family man. "He truly, whatever he did, was for his family," continues McNattin. "I was grateful for the time we did get to spend together. I always looked forward to the next time. He was a fabulous father."

"It's a bit of a recognition that it is a tight community and that we're all there for each other when we can be. It's just frustrating that you can't do any more, but we want to make sure to convey our love and appreciation to the family," says Alex Bollman, a neighbor and friend.

The widow, Hilary, has shared a touching post, giving credit to all the people who have supported their heartbroken family, writing:

"Our family has seen that in the wake of this tragic event there is an ever widening circle of people who are here to support us not just in the next few days and weeks, but for the long haul of building a life again without Michael."

The Saint Paul Police Department made an arrest in the murder of Michael Brasel. A 17-year-old male is currently being held on suspicion of second-degree murder: "The case is still active and ongoing, and we cannot release more information at this time," according to Saint Paul Police Department's statement in a Facebook post.

People's hearts ache for Brasel's family during this unimaginably difficult time. We hope that his widow and children find comfort in the love and support that surrounds them. Sending all of our love and support during this heartbreaking time.