Richard Allen (Brownie) Brown

Richard Allen Brown “Brownie” passed away at his home in Storrs, CT on Thursday October 13, 2016 at the age of 89. Richard is pre- deceased by his parents, Benjamin and Marion Brown, stepmother Marion, his brother, Robert Brown of Bozeman, Montana, wife Delores Brown, and loving fiancée of 27 years, Nancy Goodrich of Chaplin, CT. He was a life long resident of Storrs, CT, born on May 27,1927. He is survived by his nephews Theodore Brown, Peter Brown and Benjamin Brown; loving children of Nancy; David Goodrich, Janice Taylor, Pamela Goodrich, and Sandy Goodrich; their children and spouses; Kimberly Passarello (Thomas), Seth Taylor (Lee), Nicole Laboy, Nate Goodrich (Heather), Steph Walker (Rick), and Zack Keenan; and numerous great-grandchildren.

Richard graduated from Windham High school, class of 1945. He served in the Army for two years as a finance clerk stationed in Germany and was honorably discharged in 1947. In addition he graduated from UCONN College of agriculture in 1951 and worked during the summers at the Agronomy farm. During his younger years he enjoyed being a local poultry farmer and had egg routes throughout the surrounding towns. He then began working part-time at the open-air ice rink at UCONN which led into a full time “zamboni” operator for which he is well known. Richard’s passion for sports was demonstrated through active participation in hockey, baseball, basketball, soccer and golf. Richard received numerous plaques and awards for his outstanding achievements in UCONN Athletics. In addition “Brownie” refereed and volunteered at multiple athletic events. His commitment to sports led him to transport students to their designated after-school sporting events. Richard was a member of the VFW, and was very active in the Willimantic Country Club for many years. He was proud to participate in the yearly WAIM steeple chase biking event.

Richard enjoyed polka music and dancing which is where he met his fiancée Nancy. In addition to many polka functions they shared a love of travel in their motor home. They explored all of the United States and Alaska with the exception of three states. They spent their winters in Florida making life long friends. Their Florida vacation was based upon Detroit Tigers spring training games. In the summer they enjoyed many family picnics on the Natchaug river where Nancy resided. Richard always enjoyed spending time in his large garden and sharing his generous supply of vegetables with others. Richard “Brownie” had a very kind heart and quick wit and will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Calling hours will be held at Potter Funeral Home 456 Jackson Street, Willimantic, CT on Wednesday October 19, 2016 from 5-7pm. Funeral Service to be held on Thursday October 20, 2016 11:00 am at the Chaplin Congregational Church, Chaplin Street, Chaplin, CT. Burial following service at the Storrs Cemetery in Storrs, CT.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Chaplin Congregational Church 43 Chaplin Street, Chaplin, CT 06235. 

 Service Information