Donald Francis ‘Big Don’ Brown was a special person. Born October 11, 1953, the oldest of six siblings, Don was always a presence in our lives. He was the beloved son of Donald Andrew and Helen Marie Brown who raised him with love and care. He was an older brother with a difference. We grew up protective of him although, as siblings, we knew how to push his buttons! But we protected him fiercely from anyone who chose to see him or treat him as less than an equal.

He was better than other older brothers! His contributions to us were profound. We understood from an early age that acceptance of those who are different than we are, is a life-long lesson that so many people never get. He taught us patience and wonder. Don could tell you the name of a song and the artist after hearing just three notes of the song. He knew every sports team and every captain of the team. He always believed in Santa Claus so that wonder touched us all throughout our entire lives!

Through enormous trials and tribulations Don was resilient. He loved his people and encouraged kindness. He loved his music and his food. He was known to sample his mother’s home cooked favorites when he thought no one was looking! His shy smile was infectious even though he was a man of few words. In his youth, he was our badass, but in his later years, he was a gentle soul who loved listening to music and being around a good party.

Some memories:

Dad made him whistle when he was carrying strawberries so he wouldn’t eat them all before the groceries were unloaded.

He would move his watch forward so he could convince everyone that it was time for lunch.

He walked into a room with the pronouncement that Don Brown was here!

He knew his days of the week and wasn’t shy about reminding you.

And a favorite "And then?" when you were explaining what was next.

Don, we miss you but we are sure you are entertaining Mom and Dad and aunts and uncles up in heaven.

Donald Francis Brown was predeceased by his parents, Donald Andrew Brown and Helen Marie (MacNeil) Brown; honored by his 5 remaining siblings: Barbara, James, Steven, Robert and Ken.

A private family gathering will be held in his honour later this fall. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to take a moment to enjoy a good meal, listen to a favorite song or dance in his memory. Arrangements are under the direction of R.H. Porter Funeral Home.