Joseph Brown

Sun City West - Joseph Girvan Brown, age 72, passed away April 14th, 2017, at his home in Sun City West, Arizona. He was preceded in death by his mother, Matilda, his father, George, and is survived by wife, Karen, his two sons, Ryan and Robert (Geri), step-mother, M'ree, brother, Roy (Nelda), sisters Lynn (Conrad) and Sh'ree, and mother-in-law, Rita. Joe was born January 5th, 1945 in Belfast, Northern Ireland and emigrated to Detroit, Michigan with his brother Robert "Roy" Brown in 1963. While Joe was naturalized as a US citizen in 1977 and a patriotic American, he remained very affectionate of his homeland of Ireland and returned as often as he could. Joe is a veteran of the Vietnam War, where he served in the 624th Sup & Svc Co at the Long Binh Post in 1967. He returned home early from service after sustaining injuries from an attack on the base. He was a proud graduate of Michigan State University and worked for over 30 years as a highly-regarded quality control engineer for Eaton Stamping in his adopted home town of Eaton Rapids, Michigan as well as for Tower Automotive at the Cadillac Plant in Lansing, MI. After retirement, Joe and Karen spent time living in Costa Rica from 2007-2012 along with their son, Robert (Geri), before returning to live in Arizona to be near his brother, Roy (Nelda), son, Ryan, and mother-in-law, Rita. Joe will be remembered as being funny with a quick wit, always ready to make us laugh. His family and close friends will recall his signature Irish accent when telling lgic stories. He was a natural problem solver, and thrived when faced with challenges. His generosity was felt by many, as he commonly put the needs of others before his own. Joe was a humble man who was happy with the simple things in life; a nice meal and comfortable place to sit and think. Football (soccer) was one of Joe's passions and he coached both sons in the AYSO soccer league in Eaton Rapids. Joe later served as the regional commissioner for AYSO and went on to coach a women's league team for several years in Lansing, MI. Joe also committed time in service to the Lion's Club and the United Way. A private service will be held at his home on April 27th, attended by the Military Honor Guard in honor of his service. His ashes will remain with loved ones and will be returned to his home in Ireland near his father, George Apperson Brown.