James Stephen Brown

Steve Brown passed away on February 26, 2025, just shy of his 80th birthday, in Boulder, Colorado—a place he loved and called home for most of his adult life. Though his passing was unexpected, it was peaceful, and he was surrounded by family.

Born on March 11, 1945, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Steve was the eldest son of Jim and Julia Brown and a loving brother to his sister, Debbie. Steve attended Catholic school before studying at Villanova University and graduating from Pennsylvania State University in 1969, setting the stage for a life defined by adventure, humor, and an insatiable curiosity about the world and the people in it.

In 1976, Steve followed his Tibetan Buddhist teacher, Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche, from the East Coast to Boulder, where he became an integral part of the Boulder Shambhala Sangha. It was during this time that he met and married Marianne Austin, and was blessed to raise Robert and Suzanne, and together they welcomed identical twin daughters, Maggie and Becky in June, 1979.

Steve was a man of many passions. In his younger years, with his signature mustache and easygoing charm, he was often told he bore a striking resemblance to Magnum P.I. He earned a black belt in karate, completed various races—including the Bolder Boulder and the Denver Marathon—became a master scuba diver, and cultivated a deep appreciation for bonsai trees. He loved playing guitar, maintaining his tropical fish tanks, and cooking a variety of cuisines. A true gadget enthusiast, he had a tool for every imaginable task. His boundless curiosity extended to both the spiritual and material worlds, keeping him ever engaged in learning and exploring. His spiritual path led him across the globe—to Vermont (Karme Choling), Ecuador, Cambridge, Hawaii, and Mexico—each journey adding depth to his ever-evolving perspective on life.

Steve’s career in construction and project management showcased his meticulous attention to detail and dedication to craftsmanship. He was a strong team leader directing his crews to build some of the most lasting buildings on the Denver skyline. He was also a skilled carpenter, and a guitar builder with a deep appreciation and love for his tools.

Steve - affectionately known as Papa Joe - was a kind soul and a deep thinker and will be missed immensely. He is survived by his sister, Debbie (Steve) of Margate, New Jersey; his twin daughters, Maggie (Aaron) and Becky (Ian) of Boulder, CO; his beloved grandchildren, Vivienne (7) and Calvin (7); his nephew, Drew; his niece, Stephanie, and her family, along with all those lucky enough to have known him. His sense of humor, wisdom, and kind spirit left an indelible mark on the lives he touched.