Charles Howard Brown

With great sadness we recognize the passing of C. Howard Brown at age 92 on May 7, 2023 in San Francisco, leaving Ellen, his beloved wife of almost 57 years. Howard was the son of Charles R. and Rubye A. Brown, and he was born, raised, and lived almost his entire life in the city. He was a proud alumnus of Stanford University, graduating in 1952 and earning his MBA in 1954. Howard’s closest, lifelong friends were classmates from Stanford, and following Stanford football was one of his passions.

After a brief stint in the U.S. Army, Howard began his career at Standard Oil of California, later Chevron. He worked nearly 35 years as a financial analyst at the company, retiring in 1991.

A summer job in college sparked his fondness for the Sierra Nevada, especially Kings Canyon and Yosemite National Parks. Hiking and camping in the mountains was the source of many wonderful memories for Howard and his family. In 1965 he first met Ellen during a group hike on Mount Tamalpais. They were married in 1966 and soon after moved into a home in the Richmond District where they raised two children (and a few cats).

Throughout his life Howard took pleasure in theater and music, regularly attending the American Conservatory Theater and the Lamplighters, and listening to his sizable classical music collection. He was an avid model railroader, constructing an elaborate layout over several decades. After retirement, he and Ellen enjoyed travel to Alaska and Europe. Howard volunteered at the Presidio Historical Association for over 20 years.

Howard is survived by his wife, Ellen, and children David Brown and Claudia Brown, daughter-in-law Kristin Burr, and grandchildren Clara, Leila, and Meredith Burr Brown.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Yosemite Conservancy.