Joseph Brown

BROWN - Joseph Thomas Brown, age 81, passed away Sunday, November 1, 2009, surrounded by his loved ones. Joe was born to W.J. and Vera Brown, one of three children, raised in Oil City, PA. He was a Veteran of the Korean War and graduated from Bradley University in Peoria, IL. He married the love of his life, Kath, on June 4, 1960. He worked 30 years in the printing business, ending his career at International Paper. Joe was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. He enjoyed golf and was an avid White Caps fan. He was a faithful parishioner of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, participating as an usher and in the Knights of Columbus, where he helped serve countless fish fries and pancake breakfasts. Joe had a passion for watches, and a love for hot fudge sundaes. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Kathryn; his children, Jeffery (Alexandra) Brown, Dr. J Todd (Jodi) Brown, Jane (Stephen) Clark and Trudi (Kevin) Westendorf; nine grandchildren; and brother, William (Jean) Brown. Joe is preceded in death by his parents W.J. and Vera Brown; sister, Mary and brother-in-law, Jim Bower. Joe was affectionately known as "Bop" to his grandchildren. The family will greet relatives and friends on Thursday, November 5, 2009 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Service, 4291 Cascade Road S.E. and one hour prior to Mass on Friday at the church. A rosary will be said Thursday evening at 7:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10:30 a.m. Friday, November 6, 2009 at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 2750 Burton Street S.E., Grand Rapids, The Rev. Louis Stasker, Presider. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Dan Donnelly Education Fund at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church or the EGR Police Department Bruce VanPopering memorial Fund. A special thanks to the many caregivers at Blodgett Hospital and wonderful men in blue in EGR. The family is being served by Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Service