John Brown Obituary

John (Jack) Samuel Brown passed away Saturday, February 4, 2023, at the age of 86. A visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 pm on Thursday, February 9, 2023, at Iles Grandview Park Funeral Home, located at 3211 Hubbell Avenue in Des Moines. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, February 10, 2023, at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church, located at 3300 Easton Blvd in Des Moines.

John was born in Des Moines to James and Mattie Brown on July 19, 1936. He graduated from Des Moines Technical High School in 1954. John married Myrna Ann Nace on June 18, 1955. They lived and raised their kids in the same house on the east side of Des Moines up until 2021. He served 27 years with the Iowa Air National Guard where he retired in 1981 as the First Sergeant/Master Sergeant of the 132nd Tactical Fighter Wing. John was a printer by trade and had worked for The Des Moines Register & Tribune as well as Meredith Publishing among others. Later, he worked with the security staff at Drake University. One of the tasks that John enjoyed most was driving the Safe-Ride shuttle bus for the Drake students. The students honored him one year by choosing him to be a judge for the Drake Relays street painting event.

John was active with both the Cub Scout and Boy Scout programs, Pack 99 and Troop 99, where he served as Cubmaster and Scoutmaster for many years during the 60s and 70s. His Scout friends would say, “It never rains on John Brown!” He was an active member of The Masons Home Lodge in Des Moines, and later Pleasant Hill, since the late 70s. He remained in good standing until his passing. John was honored to have served as Master of the Lodge and then as Chaplain for years thereafter. He was also active with St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.

John was preceded in death by his parents, James and Mattie Brown, and his sisters, Sharon Clapp and Sandra Fredregill. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Myrna Brown; his twin brother, James Brown (Judy); four children, Mark Brown (Nancy), Teresa Wright (Richard), Angela Brown, and Walter Brown; four grandchildren, Christopher Mackin (Candy), Anissa Brown, Madelyn Wright (Abraham), and Colin Costa (Jordyn); and eight great-grandchildren, as well as many cherished nieces and nephews.

John was a good husband and father. He was a positive influence within the community and with those he met. He will be greatly missed.

Arrangements by Iles Grandview Park Chapel

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