03/31/2017
Mr. Richard Alan Brown, age 87, died, March 31, 2017, at home in Joshua Tree where he’s lived for the past 20 years. He was under the care of Gentiva Hospice. While living in the high desert he spent his time improving his property and “grooming the desert”. He also joined the area’s compost dub and became a self-taught master composter.
Richard was born, May 1, 1929, to Ray and Edna Brown and lived his first 18 years in Iowa. From there he served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. One of his assignments with the Navy was in Monterey, California. When he was discharged from the Navy he returned to Monterey to live. It was there that he met Elinor L. Thompson whom he later married. They had two daughters together.
Richard completed a carpentry apprentice program in May 1955 and ultimately became a master carpenter, electrician, and plumber.
He worked in construction his entire life. He used these same skills to invent new products he used to resolve challenges he found when working in the various trades. There was no challenge put before him that he was not able to solve.
Richard ventured into a couple of sidelines during his working years — he owned a flooring company, nursery and garden business, and a freeze-dried flower company.
While living in Monterey, Richard was very active in the community.
He was elected to the Boards of Education in both Monterey and Seaside. He was a member of Toast Masters and the Elks for many years.
When not working, Richard liked to ballroom dance, travel, build furniture, and make signs that were designed to inspire and make one smile.
Richard was the last surviving sibling; he was predeceased by his parents and three brothers and two sisters. He is survived by his two daughters, Sandy Rosen and Jan Bond, two granddaughters, Brandi Ficara (Paul), and Lisa Rosen (Robert), and great grandson, Luca Ficara.
TRIDENT SOCIETY – Rancho Mirage, Rancho Mirage, CA.