Daniel Brown

Daniel Thomas Brown passed away peacefully on April 19, 2025. He was born in Eugene on November 15, 1947, to Clarence and Eileen Brown. He had 9 siblings: Mary Pat Croak, Jerry Brown, Dorothy (Robertson) Rochon, Joanne Hoppe, Betty Pires, Jim Brown, Kathy Powell, Patrick Brown (Tig) and Marilyn Dikeos (Mark), and many wonderful nieces, nephews. Dan attended school at St. Mary’s, St. Francis (Class of ’66), U of O and graduated from Gonzaga Law School in 1974. He practiced law in Eugene and Springfield. He remained close to many of his high school friends including: the Mackes, Brewsters, Heidts, Kappenman, and his cousin Joe Brown – who was like a brother to Dan.

Dan married Ellen Jessie on May 31, 1980. They had three children: Patrick, Nicole, and Laura (husband Michael Oakes).

Dan was a life-long Duck fan. Obnoxious to his two OSU Beaver alumni children – which he would contend was part of the fun. As a family, we made many great memories in our travels and in watching our children reach all of their incredible milestones.

Quick-witted, tenacious, and determined always. He golfed every week when his health allowed. He had little fear of anything in life. Dan loved being on the water, visiting the coast, and traveling to Palm Springs annually for over 30 years with some of his favorite travel buddies – Debee and Joe Brown, and Bob and Liz Edgar. His lawyer buddies – George Morris, Jim O’Kief, Robb Miller, and Mike Bruce – made work a great joy for Dan. Every day was full of fun and playful ribbing. They also always had the best secretaries and staff ever.

A long-time proud member of the Knights of Columbus, Dan loved stopping at the KC club regularly to see his buddies, play cards, or shoot the breeze over a beer.

Dan had very strong family ties. The yearly Brown family (siblings) reunion in Bend/Sunriver was a time for golf and family celebration. He was also fortunate to be a part of the “Jessie Village” which is a family full of love, pizza parties, and yearly Christmas gatherings at the KC Club. Dan was a big part of both family’s lives. He was like a “father” to Pat, John, Shelli, and Kelli – whom he loved like his own children. They played a big part in helping Dan when he needed it most in his later years of life.

Through the many health hurdles, Dan never complained or wished for more. He was a strong, independent man up until the end and always had room for a smart remark, prank, or teasing.

Pat, Nicole, and Laura had the best dad, and they knew that he always loved them and was there if ever they needed him. They were the richest part of his life. My 44 years of marriage to Dan was a blessing and always full of surprises. His chair may be empty now, but we will feel his spirit forever. Memories are a treasure. If you knew Dan, you will remember him…

Funeral will be at St. Paul Catholic Church on August 6, 2025 at 12-noon. Reception following. Donations in lieu of flowers to: Clarence/Eileen Brown Scholarship fund at Marist High School, Knights of Columbus#1430 or the Alzheimer’s foundation