Bob Brown, formally of Shellsburg and Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away suddenly on April 21, 2020, surrounded by his three daughters. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Bob was born March 13, 1939 in Independence, Iowa to Ralph and Laurel Brown. He graduated from Van Horne High School in 1956. He was active in all sports and was proud to be a Van Horne Hornet baseball catcher.
While employed at Armstrong’s Department Store Bob met Barbara Ettinger and soon married on September 26, 1959. Bob began his career at Collins Radio, later Rockwell International in 1960 and retiring 35 years later. As a Hawkeye fan he worked for Per Mar for over 30 years in Iowa City in various roles, including escorting luminaries such as John Wooden and Bobby Knight.
Bob enjoyed woodworking, sports cars, motorcycles, the Hawkeyes, Chicago Cubs, golf and winters in Arizona. He later made Arizona his permanent home. He is proceeded in death by his wife, Barbara Brown; parents and brother, Brad Brown; and grandson Ryan.
Left to cherish Bob’s memories are his daughters; Jodi (Michael) Gover of Three Rivers, California, Becki (Len) Parmenter of Gold Canyon, Arizona, and Robin (Doug) Wichhart of North Liberty, Iowa; four grandchildren: Joey Gover, Jordan Gover, Jamie Wichhart, and Matthew Wichhart; one great-granddaughter, Brooke Gover. Bob is also survived by his brother Gary (Sandi) Brown of Merced, California; and many extended family members including his four-legged companion, Bailey.
Bob will always be remembered for his selflessness, kindness, zest for life, and impish grin. He was instrumental in establishing and operating the food pantry in Shellsburg, assisting others in his community by providing his time and talent. He also provided “Uber services” for those who needed transportation or errands. He was the neighborhood handyman.
We were both so sorry to hear about Bob. We have very fond memories of our 44th st friends. Sure do miss Barb. Always brings a smile when I think of them. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Sandy and Lou Anne
I’m so sorry to hear of Bob’s passing! I knew him for many years because of the great times we had working together in the “White Room” at Collins ( Rockwell ). Saw Bob & Barb at their home in Cedar Rapids a lot, beings they lived by my brother & sister-in-law, ( Sandy & Lou Anne Sands ). I’m also a golfer, so was at his home in Shellsburg since it was very close to the golf course.
Thinking of you all during this difficult time with COVID 19, & not being able to be together with family & friends!!
My deepest sympathy to the whole family!
Rusty Duenow
Jodi, Becky and Robin,
We were saddened to learn of your father’s passing. Our most sincere condolences to you and your families. We certainly have fond memories of your family and especially your mother who was such an important part of our children’s formative years. We know your lives were also impacted by the additional children around the house. Our “kids” now have children of their own. Michael is 45 and has an 8 year old daughter. Jennifer is 40 with 2 boys almost 4 and 6. Yes, that was a long time ago. I always marveled at your mother’s organizational skills as she had every child’s (correct) things lined up ready to go home.
In sympathy and friendship,
The Ferreter Family