Braxton Cole Bickelhaupt, 21, of McCallsburg, Iowa, passed away on Monday, September 14, 2026. His funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at Salem Lutheran Church in Roland, Iowa, with Pastor Matt Soderstrum officiating. A private family burial will be held at a later date. 

Braxton was born on May 29, 2005, in Ames, Iowa, to Brandon Bickelhaupt and Misty (Lang) Bickelhaupt. He grew up in McCallsburg and developed a love for the outdoors at an early age. Braxton attended Colo-NESCO and graduated with the Class of 2024. Following high school, he began working at Pratt Sanitation in Nevada, Iowa. He also enjoyed spending time at the McCallsburg Wellness Center, where he worked out and stayed active.

Family and close friends meant everything to Braxton. He cherished the time he spent with the people closest to him and created memories that will remain with them forever. He especially enjoyed fishing, cutting wood, kayaking, swimming in rivers and lakes, and simply being outside. Braxton found joy in the outdoors and in the simple moments shared with those he loved.

Those left to cherish Braxton’s loving memory are his parents, Misty Bickelhaupt and Brandon (Jessica) Bickelhaupt; siblings, Zack McWherter, Carson Bickelhaupt, Dakota Bickelhaupt, Damian Lanczos, Jordan Chavira, Kayden Bickelhaupt, Ace Erickson, Ivy Solberg, and Alyiah Bickelhaupt; grandparents, Robert and Robin Thomas, Dan Bickelhaupt, and Darla Nostwich; great-grandparents, Shirley and George; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousin; special friends, Kevin (Angie) Sarazin, Jake Waltemeyer, and Kimberley Sparks and family; and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Virgil and Clarice Bickelhaupt, and Bill Miller, and great-grandparents, Don and Betty Arnold.

In remembering Braxton, his family hopes his life will also remind others of the importance of compassion, connection, and reaching out when someone is struggling. Mental health challenges and thoughts of suicide can affect people and families in ways that are not always visible. No one should have to face those struggles alone. Taking the time to listen, check in on a loved one, or encourage someone to seek help can make a meaningful difference.

If you or someone you know is struggling or experiencing thoughts of suicide, help is available. In the United States, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and connect with a trained crisis counselor. Reaching out is a sign that support is needed—not something to be ashamed of.

Fredregill Family Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of Braxton and his family.