Obituary of William Allan Brown

William Allan Brown

(June 19, 1928 – March 16, 2024)

Survived by his wife of 71 years, Vivian (née Evenden), sons Dennis (Gillian), Gary (Krista) and Steve (Kerry), ten grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.  Predeceased by son David (Liette).  Also survived by “adopted” daughter Beverleigh Broughton (Kevin).

Born in St. John’s, NF, Al graduated from Memorial University’s engineering program, then completed a Bachelor of Engineering at McGill University.  In 1950 he moved to Windsor, ON where he met Vivian, the love of his life; they married in 1953.  After moves to Sudbury and Scarborough, in 1965 the family settled in Guelph.  Most of Al’s career was spent at the University of Guelph, first as Supervisor of Engineering, and finally as Director of Physical Resources (a position he held for 23 years before retiring).

Al’s life was characterised by faithful service to God and his fellow man.  He served on numerous boards and committees at the University, as well as arts centres, St. Joseph’s Hospital, Habitat for Humanity and the Red Cross.  He served as a Salvation Army bandsman for 51 years (including time as Bandmaster) and was a Songster Leader.  He volunteered his time reading with elementary students for almost 10 years, receiving an “Everyday Hero” award from the local school board in 2018.  The Browns regularly extended hospitality to many international students and other youth.

An insatiable learner, Al always had a couple of books by his chair.  He had many hobbies: woodworking, weaving, stamp collecting, sailing, painting, and model building.  He wrote countless musical arrangements for small brass ensemble (and recorder ensembles), and for years organized musical concerts at senior’s residences in the Guelph area. 

Al leaves a tremendous legacy of quiet, generous, faithful love of God, his family and friends. 

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, March 27 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. at The Salvation Army, Guelph Citadel. (1320 Gordon St.)

The Celebration of Life will be held at The Salvation Army on Thursday, March 28 at 11:00 a.m.  The service will be live streamed at https://www.youtube.com/@guelphsa

Donations in Al’s honour may be made to The Salvation Army Guelph Citadel music groups.