Ronald J. Brown

Passed away peacefully at his home in Niagara Falls on February 26, 2020 at the age of 89. Predeceased by his loving wife Joan Brown (nee Orr, July 14, 2018), his son David Brown (2010), siblings Kathleen Collins, Mildred Keighan Alexander Brown, Robert Brown, Jean Meagher and Gordon Brown. Survived by his beloved children; James, Michael and Terry and daughter-in-law Cairine (David) Dear grandfather to; Alex, Graham Isador, and Alison. Also sadly missed by his sisters-in-law Shirley Orr, Phyllis Orr, Barbara Brown as well as many nieces and nephews.

Through all ages of his life Ron served Niagara Falls with enthusiasm and joyfulness. As a teenager, he was early member of 126 Air Cadets and earned his pilot’s wings in 1949. He graduated from NFCVI and immediately went to work as a machinist at Provincial Crane. Mid-career he changed trajectory and began teaching at Stamford Collegiate where he influenced many students, launched careers and is still fondly remembered. While teaching machining he earned a B.A. from Brock University and began teaching history as well.

He was active in St Andrews Church, leading the Boy Scout troop, writing and directing plays, raising funds for various projects. He and his wife Joan made their home the centre of numerous golf tournaments, Christmas parties, musical evenings and many gatherings for family and friends.

Upon retirement 1987, he only became busier. Ron helped found the Stair Climb for Cancer with the Niagara Falls Cancer Society. He was president of the Friends of Stamford Village enriching knowledge of the local area for almost 25 years. His many historical articles and stories that were published in the Niagara Falls Review always entertained. Ron and Joan lead dramatic productions at St Andrew’s United Church and were members of Rainbow Productions. He sang with Niagara Men’s Chorus. For enriching the lives of friends, cohorts and the community Ron and Joan were inducted into the Niagara Falls Arts and Culture Wall of Fame in 2016.

Ron never failed to light up any room he was in. He and his wife Joan were an example of how joyous service to others creates a joyous life.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 3rd, 2020 from 2-4 and 7-9pm at HETHERINGTON AND DEANS FUNERAL CHAPEL; 5176 Victoria Ave, Niagara Falls (905-354-5614). A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 4th at 11:00am at ST. ANDREWS UNITED CHURCH, 5645 Morrison St. Niagara Falls with interment to follow at Fairview Cemetery. Donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society or a charity of ones choice.