Date of Death: September 30, 2023
Service Details
A celebration of Don’s life will be held Saturday, November 4, 2023 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at Hohner Funeral Home, 1004 Arnold St., Three Rivers.
Obituary Notice
Donald Lee Brown (Don) of Berrien Springs was known for his ability to “fix anything.” His journey began in 1943 when he was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He continued until graduating to Heaven on September 30, 2023 at the age of 80.
Don didn’t complain, but as a child and throughout his life, he endured the abdominal pain of Crohn’s Disease. Later he developed Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) which kept him homebound in later life. He had a quiet compassion for others. He would love it if you donated to St. Jude’s or Shriner’s Hospitals for Children.
Don attended Immaculate Conception Catholic School and Three Rivers High School. In high school he played tennis and football. More importantly, that is where he met Myrna (Sills). They dated for 4 years and then were married for 60 years. Both will tell you 64 years is a LONG TIME.
Don was inventive. If he needed a tool, or something that was not available, he would create it himself. If it was broken, he would make improvements while he fixed it. He really enjoyed the challenge. He tried out many occupations as a maintenance mechanic, but small engine repair fit him best. He had his own shop for years while they lived in Florida.
When not tinkering in the garage, or fixing something for someone, Don loved fishing of all types. He also enjoyed hunting, black powder cannons and pistols, Tigers baseball, and was a fan of early NASCAR.
Don and Myrna had two little mechanics. Being a hands-on type of guy, Don shared his enthusiasm of all things mechanical with his sons, as well as the love of cannons, guns, cars, and motorcycles. Because he allowed his boys to learn by trying, there were times his tools would disappear, or something would be taken apart but not put back together.
Throughout his time with us Don loved many things, but nothing more than his family. He loved his wife Myrna, sons Michael (Cindy) and Charlie (Cyndi), 8 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren, nieces Pati and Sandy, and nephew Kurt.
Don passed his toolbox to his sons so he could be reunited in Heaven with his mother Corinne, father Don, brother Bill, niece Dawn (and many other family and friends). We are confident he is finding out from his dad and brother where all the best fishing spots are. Can’t imagine there would be any bad ones in Heaven.
Additional Information
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He was a great caretaker for the summer camp in Three Rivers. Don also taught me a few mechanical stuff so I could work on equipment of my own. I got to know his sons and enjoyed hanging out with them. Myrna always made me feel like part of the family when I would visit either during the summer or in the off season of winter. My condolences to the whole Brown family and friends.
He was an incredable man. Blessed to have gotten to know him of the last few years. He was a avid story teller and i loved listening. He will be missed!!! I look forward to hearing more when we meet again. Rest easy my friend!!!
Sincere sympathy to Dons entire family during this trying time. Although we have only known Don for the past 3 years, we have memories that will last forever. Loved his stories and all of his fishing advice. He will truly be missed. Rest comfortably, painfree in heaven Don.
Blessing to you all.
I don’t remember Don, but I knew Myrna. My condolences for your loss. May God comfort you and yours while you share memories with each other.
Heaven has gained a handy, toolman angel. May Don rest in peace, without pain or infirmity, in God’s love. Don will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Happy fishing, Don.