PULTNEYVILLE: Thomas E. Brown, 81, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, peacefully passed away September 29, 2024, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Tom was born October 14, 1942, to the late Donald and Wanda (McHenry) Brown. He graduated from John Marshall High School, Rochester, NY and was an elite high jumper in his youth. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Cortland State. Tom carried his athleticism into his various careers; lifeguard, teacher, soccer coach, swim coach, truck driver, and final calling as a paper salesman. In retirement, he spent several years meticulously maintaining Pultneyville’s Forman Park as the foreman of grounds.
Tom knew how to savor life’s simple pleasures. As an avid outdoorsman, Tom could be found in the early morning hours trolling for bass in Lake Ontario, taking his dogs for long walks in the apple orchards, or carving turns on the ski slopes of New York, Vermont, and the Colorado Rockies. He was an outstanding bowler, always up for attending live music, and was known far and wide for his famous grilled blackened fish. Tom relished spending time with loved ones, sharing his legendary tales punctuated by his infectious smile and laughter; from selflessly saving a drowning woman swept down the Genesee River above High Falls to mishaps like falling out of a moving boat while still maintaining control of his beer. Tom loved a good story, captivating anyone who listened. Most of all, Tom loved his family. He cherished countless road trips down to Florida and across the country, logging over 500,000 miles in his beloved GMC Safari.
Tom is survived by his best friend and wife of 50 years, Karen (Phillips) Brown, his children Kimberlee (Doug) Kearns, Kelly (Jeff) Ekas, Michael (Kim) Brown, Mark Ward, Matthew Brown, Andrew (Heather) Brown, and father figure to his two nieces, Cortney Simmons and Kerby McMurtrie, as well as 12 grandchildren, and canine companion, Holly. In a selfless act, Tom donated his body to Science. There will be a Celebration of Tom’s Life at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association (https://act.alz.org).
The Brown family has entrusted the Mull funeral home with these arrangements
