Lawrence D. Brownell

Lawrence D. “Larry” Brownell, 69, of North Truro passed away on May 23, 2024 after a short illness. Born on March 15, 1955 in New Bedford, he was the son of the late Ulysses G and Louise (Meads) Brownell. Larry is survived by his wife of 43 years, Elaine “Rainie” (Roderick) Brownell who remained present at his side through his final moments.

Growing up in Provincetown and living on the outer Cape his whole life, he was a 1974 graduate of Provincetown High School and excelled as a remarkable athlete holding an impressive record as pitcher of the baseball team. In the 1971 season, he pitched in the championship game against Upper Cape Vocational winning 16-3. In their previous meeting, he had pitched a shutout of final score 13-0. That season he started out pitching 7 innings against South Shore Vocational with 11 strikeouts and 2 walks, beginning with a win.

This love for athletics continued into candlepin bowling initially at Ant’s Provincetown bowlaway where he demonstrated outstanding skills. Appearing on the Channel 5 bowling TV show on three occasions, he was a member of four championship teams on Cape Cod. His record in 1968 won him recognition for High Average 99, Most Spares 103, Most Strikes 16 and High Triple 341. Only to improve in the following season to High Average 101, Most Spares 124, Most Strikes 20, High Triple 348 and High Total Pinball 6963.

Beyond these individual accomplishments, Larry is greatly remembered for what he gave back to his community. Working for the Provincetown schools for over 37 years, Larry finished his career as the supervisor of Buildings and Grounds recognized in a Citation from the Massachusetts House of Representatives for his dedication and service to the town. Combined with his work ethic and talent for operations was his kind and jovial demeanor - that smile or funny story shared with a student or co-worker brightening their day and simply bringing joy into the lives of others.

He was also a member of the Provincetown Fire Department for 17 years from 1982 until 1999 when he retired as Captain of Engine Company 4. Larry was known to mentor junior firefighters and share his knowledge not only of fire fighting skills but providing anecdotes of life too, motivating these younger individuals to make good decisions and learn from mistakes. His positive impact on the next generation was immeasurable.

After retirement, Larry very much enjoyed gardening, yard work and woodworking. He created a meticulous wood shop in his home and delighted in crafting projects including an almost life-sized wooden nativity scene for display during the Christmas season.

Fondly known and loved as Uncle Larry, he is survived by his nephew and spouse, Matthew and Heather Childs of Yarmouth; his nieces and their spouses, Heather and Stephen Harper of North Truro, Jan and Fran Taylor of Watertown, Elena and Bobby Rice of North Truro, Stephanie and Erik Hakala of Yarmouth, and Lisa Smith of Provincetown. In addition he is survived by 7 great nephews, 2 great nieces, 4 great-great nieces and 1 great-great nephew.

He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Marjorie A. Childs of Yarmouth and Christine L. Roderick of North Truro and his brother-in-law Stanley Smith of Provincetown.

He was predeceased by his brothers-in-law Warren J. Roderick, Jr and Leo “Skip” Childs and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Warren and Marjorie (Silva) Roderick, all of North Truro; as well as a sister Camila (Meads) Smith and nephews Michael and Larry Lee Smith all of Provincetown.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at 11:00am in St. Peter the Apostle Church, 11 Prince Street, Provincetown followed by burial in St. Peter Cemetery. Visiting hours are Monday at the Nickerson Funeral Home, 340 Main Street, Wellfleet from 4-6pm. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the following organizations: St. Vincent de Paul Society, Provincetown Firemen's Association, or another charitable organization of your choice.