05/23/2008: "Harold R. Brown, Sr."

June 19, 1914 - May 13, 2008

Harold was born June 19, 1914 in Eagle Grove, Iowa and passed away peacefully at his son Harvey’s home in Friday Harbor, on May 13, 2008, with family and friends at his side.

Harold is survived and greatly missed by his three children Harold, Jr. (and wife Lisa), Allan, and Connie (and husband Chris); his four grandchildren Leila (and Jared), Mitchell, Meaghan, and Max; and his great grandchild Joseph.

Harold lived a full life unique to him and his generation. He was a WWII Army Sergeant who landed on Omaha Beach during the invasion, fought through the Battle of the Bulge and marched his troops across northern France and most of Germany. Harold enjoyed a variety of different jobs during his lifetime, including the Santa Fe Railroad, Roche Harbor Lime & Cement Company, the Upper Baker Dam project, construction, ran the garbage dump before the Town took it over, picked up garbage for San Juan Sanitation, crewmember for the Town of Friday Harbor, caretaker of the cemetery, and groundskeeper for Valmark. Throughout his life he found great joy in the outdoors with hunting, fishing and gardening. He officially retired at 85 and moved to Port Angeles to plant a large garden and enjoy the local wildlife. In 2005, his wife of 45 years, Bernie, departed and he is now rejoined with her.

Nine plus decades cannot be summed up in a few words. It can only be remembered with love of family and great memories. We will miss you Dad and honor your memory.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Skagit Hospice, Nurse Houston Taylor, and Social Worker Ingrid Bower for their warm, caring, and careful assistance during Harold’s final months.

A graveside service will be held at the Friday Harbor Cemetery on Friday, June 6 at 4:00 pm with potluck to follow at 940 Park St