Theodore W. Brazeau

Theodore W. Brazeau was born on March 12, 1873, in Grand Rapids (then Wisconsin Rapids), Wisconsin to Stephen (Etienne) D. Brazeau, a barber.[1][2][3] Brazeau graduated from Howe High School in Grand Rapids.[2] He graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a bachelor's degree in 1897 and the University of Wisconsin Law School in 1900.[2][4]

Brazeau was known as "T.W."[1]

Brazeau taught during his time at the University of Wisconsin.[4] After graduating, he practiced law in Grand Rapids with B. R. Goggins under the firm name of Goggins & Brazeau until 1907, then he practiced law under Goggins, Brazeau, & Briere.[4] He was District Attorney of Wood County, Wisconsin from 1903 to 1907.[4]

Brazeau was elected to the Wisconsin State Senate in 1906, and represented the 9th District from 1907 to 1910. He was a Republican.[4] In 1909, Brazeau led the enactment of the nation's first Workmen's Compensation Law.[2] It was adopted in 1911, after his tenure, but was the first law of its kind to be declared constitutional.[2] In August 1961, Brazeau and Supreme Court Justice Edward T. Fairchild were honored guests at the 50th anniversary of the law. President John F. Kennedy was the principal speaker.[3] In 1923, Brazeau received national attention as special prosecutor in the John Magnuson murder case. Magnuson was convicted of first-degree murder using scientific circumstantial evidence for sending a bomb through the mail.[5]

After the Senate, Brazeau continued with his law practice. In 1950, the partnership at Goggins, Brazeau, & Briere ended and he started a new practice with his son, Richard. He continued his law practice until retiring in 1964.[2] He also served on the Wisconsin Rapids School Board for 16 years and was a member of the county board for four years.[3]

Brazeau married Harriet Pickett in Marshfield on August 31, 1904. She died on February 2, 1961.[3] Together, they had two sons, Bernard and Richard.[3]

Brazeau died at his home in Grand Rapids on October 12, 1965.[2] He was buried at Forest Hill Cemetery.[2]

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