Larry Lee Brown
Larry Lee Brown died on July 28, 2020, at the age of 86. The youngest of four children of Fern Brown and Effie Killian Brown, he was born at home in Havelock on February 22, 1934, and because he shared a birth date with George Washington, there was some talk about naming him after the United States’ first President, an idea that was ultimately discarded. He graduated in 1952 from Northeast High School, where he made many lifelong friends.
His first job, at age 10, was caddying at Hillcrest Country Club. He later worked at Arnold’s Tavern, then joined the Army and served in Korea. After returning home, he completed a Bachelor’s degree at the University of Nebraska, with a major in math and a minor in philosophy. He joined the Unitarian Church, where he was introduced to Carol McDermand. After a whirlwind courtship, they married on February 24, 1961. He became a certified civil engineer and worked for the Department of Roads for almost four decades.
He was a devoted husband and father, who enjoyed golf, gardening, his card groups, Husker football, and he loved animals. In his retirement years, he volunteered at Planned Parenthood, where he was honored as Volunteer of the Year. He never met a stranger.
He was preceded in death by Carol Brown, his wife of 58 years; his parents and siblings Tom Brown, Jennie Mae (Don) Young, and June Kromberg; and niece Corliss Young. He is survived by daughter Amy Knox Brown and son-in-law Brad Koontz; daughter Darcy Knox Brown; granddaughter Skylar Melbye-Ethington (Mathieu) and great-grandson Jaymin; sister-in-law Becky Brown; nephew Dave (Pam) Young, who took Larry to weekly lunches at Major’s; and niece/nephews Patty, Jeff (Chris), Norman, and Russell (Kristy) Kromberg.
The family expresses deep appreciation to the staff at Independence House Northview, who compassionately cared for Larry during the two years he lived there.
A memorial service will be scheduled for a later date. In Larry’s memory, please consider a donation to the Unitarian Church, Planned Parenthood, or the Capitol Humane Society.
To leave a condolence please use the form below.
Funeral Home assisting is Aspen Mortuary, 4822 Cleveland Avenue, Lincoln, NE 68504. To view an on-line obituary or email condolences please visit Aspen Mortuary’s website at www.aspenaftercare.com.
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Condolences for Larry Lee Brown
Larry was the ‘baby of the family’ of his generation. As surviving senior member of the Brown family, I don’t expect to be able to hold a candle to any of my parents, aunts or uncles but, need to honor them all. My appreciation of Larry’s visits to my mom and sister at the Independence House knows no bounds. Carrying his connection beyond their passing, he was always a hit at our Wednesday lunches at Major Oil Cafe with me and some of my fellow co-workers whom he had never previously met but, fell right into the fold as one of us. Larry was truly a bright light in everyone’s life he touched. We could certainly use his aura in this time of self- quarantining and social distancing. A severe blow has been given to the ‘force’ of life on July 28, 2020. I cherish the time we shared together. Thank you, uncle Larry.
My sincere sympathy to Larry’s family. He was a joy to work with at the Department of Roads.
Amy and Darcy,
We are sorry for the loss of your father. I enjoyed the many years of working and golfing with him. Also, Connie and I had many years of enjoyment playing cards with both your parents. We regret that we weren’t able to express our sympathy in person.
I’m so sorry to hear of your father’s death—I knew your parents for many years—they were so proud of their daughters and granddaughter and always had stories to share. I know the last few years were difficult for them—may your memories of the love you shared help you deal with your dad’s death.