John F. Brown

In loving memory of John Frederick Brown, 74, of Kalamazoo, MI, who passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, August 10, 2024, after extended illness. John, born on February 11, 1950, in Vicksburg, MI, was a cherished son of Ralph and Anna (Multhaupt) Brown.

John's vibrant life included co-owning and operating Pine Grove Lanes and Nino’s Pizzeria in Gobles, MI from 1977 to 1990, where he also served as City Commissioner for a time. He later enjoyed a successful 34-year career as a real estate agent with Prudential Preferred and more recently with RE/MAX Advantage. In 2014, John was honored with the “Get By Giving” Award from Floyd Wickman and the Master Sales Society for his exceptional contributions to his profession.

A man of boundless energy and talent, John devoted his life to making a positive impact on those around him. He was deeply involved in the Kalamazoo community and at his home church, Prince of Peace Lutheran in Portage, MI, where he and Laurie have been members since 1993. John believed strongly in civic duty and lived his life in service of others. He was a Sergeant First Class in the Army Reserve, served as a mentor with KPEP, actively participated in the Loy Norrix HS Booster Club, and worked as a Regional Election Chair for Kalamazoo for 20 years. 

Above all, John was a family man. On June 16, 1990, he was united in marriage to Laurie (Kendall) Brown, who stood beside him when he passed. Also surviving are four daughters: Erin (Brandon) O’Brien-Jenison, Lacey (Andy) Mills, Anne (Warren) Reuland, and Christina Brown; five grandchildren: Everly, Elwood, and Alden O’Brien-Jenison, and Norah and Leonard Reuland; and three sisters: Nancy (late Otto) Decker, Patricia (Paul) Weber, and Elizabeth (William) Bushouse. John was preceded in death by three siblings: Helen Horn, Ralph “Dave” Brown, Jr., and Robert Brown. John's joyful spirit and bright smile will live on for years to come.

The family would like to thank all of the medical professionals and care providers who cared for John during his illness, including Tandem 365 and Gentiva Hospice. A special thank you to Michele W.

Join us for a Celebration of Life at 2:00PM on Sunday, August 18, 2024 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 1747 W. Milham Ave., Portage, MI 49024. Family and friends are welcome to gather from 1:30PM until the time of service. Colorful attire is encouraged, and there will be time for fellowship immediately following.

Memorial contributions may be directed to one of the following organizations:

Kalamazoo Probation Enhancement Program

519 S. Park St.

Kalamazoo, MI 49007

www.kpep.com

Kalamazoo Valley Habitat for Humanity

7612 S. Westnedge Ave.

Portage, MI 49002

www.habitatkalamazoo.org