Brown

John R. Brown, 89, a much-loved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend peacefully passed away surrounded by family on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024. A resident of Valencia, formerly Gibsonia, he was born in Duncombe, Iowa, on March 20, 1935, to the late John W. Brown and Helen Sue (Hoyt) Brown.

He was the beloved husband for 69 years of Rosemary L. (Ohnemus) Brown. The two jitterbugged their way through life, standing strong and making wonderful memories together. He was the loving father of Julie (Vic) Cerra, Kathy (David Goldstein) Brown, Peggy (Pete) Hudac, Tim Brown, Maureen (Dan) Razum, Sheila (Mark) Thomas, Bridget (John) Lane, and predeceased son, John W. Brown; brother of the late Beth (Tom) Tierney and Fran (Bill) Apatoff; and dear grandfather of Liz, Emily, Mike, Carrie, Nicole, Jessica, John A., Josh, Nate, Owen, Coby, Megan, Tara, Jesse, Curt, Molly, Olivia, Diana, Riley, McKenna and Mason. He is also survived by 20 cherished great-grandchildren and by much-loved nieces and nephews.

During his teens, John moved to Illinois, graduating from Bloom High School, where he met the love of his life, Ro. He continued his education at the University of Notre Dame, proudly graduating with the Class of ’56, earning a degree in mechanical engineering. John and Rosemary made northern Indiana their home, and he began his distinguished career in management with Dodge Manufacturing, that eventually led the family to East Tennessee. In 1976, he joined Robroy Industries in Verona, Pa. and a new home base was established.

His faith, family and community were of utmost importance to him. Known for his generosity, intelligence and helpful nature, John was a lifelong volunteer serving in multiple areas; he was active in parish council, St. Vincent De Paul Society, United Way, Chamber of Commerce and Richland Township Water Authority, to name a few. He was also a staunch supporter of his grandchildren’s activities, where he was often found in the stands and audience at many games and performances. He was also a resourceful handyman, at one point he even served as general contractor when building their very large Tennessee home.

John enjoyed traveling, cheering on the Fighting Irish, and cooking up a batch of chocolate sauce, a well-guarded recipe, to the delight of his family. With his dry sense of humor and noted quick wit, his amusing rhymes were always a hit!

John will be deeply missed by family and friends.

BROWN — A Mass of Christian burial for John R. Brown, who died Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, will be held at a future date at Holy Sepulcher Church, Butler.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Society in care of Holy Sepulcher Church; Holy Cross Association, Notre Dame, for The Care for the Elder and Retired Religious; or to a charity of your choice.

Arrangements are by SCHELLHAAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Bakerstown.

Please offer condolences at www.schellhaasfh.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.