Richard Allen Brown

Richard Allen Brown, 89, South Bend, IN passed away peacefully at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at Story Point Senior Living, Granger, Indiana. Born May 3, 1935, in Twelve Mile, Indiana, he was the son of Richard S. Brown and Effie (Swanson) Brown. Richard was dedicated to his family, an excellent teacher who loved nature and all things to do with sports. He had a nurturing way that will continue to echo in the lives of those that knew him.

Preceded in death by his parents Richard S. Brown and Effie (Swanson) Brown, brothers Carl and Robert Brown, first wife Aleta Telfer, second wife Carol V. Crawley, and step daughter Kelly Henry. Richard’s spirit is carried on through his family. He is survived by his two daughters Cheryl Sallee (husband Steve) of Valparaiso, IN, Karen Klimek (husband David) of South Bend, IN, step son Victor Baron (Melissa) and a brother Jerry Brown of Logansport, IN as well as many nieces/nephews/grandchildren and great grandchildren. 

Richard graduated from Twelve Mile High School in 1953 where he won the Indiana State Championship for Shot Put his senior year. After winning that award he received a full scholar ship to Purdue University. While at Purdue he participated in Track and Field events and earned an athletic letter and a bachelor’s degree in Science and Biology.

Richard taught high school Science and Biology for many years in the Portage Public School System. He also had many summer jobs thru Valparaiso Parks and Recreation. He was a greens keeper at Forest Park Golf Course, a lifeguard at Lakewood Park and numerous other jobs. After a full filling career Richard retired from teaching at Portage High School. He was an excellent teacher and family man. We will miss you everydayDad!

Beyond his professional career, he was a nature lover and enjoyed keeping the bird feeders filled in the yard, he loved playing golf and accomplished what many golfers strive for that precious “hole in one”. He also enjoyed fishing, playing tennis, dominos, euchre, the Chicago Bears, Cubs and remained a devoted Purdue fan his whole life. Boiler Up Dad!

The family would like to thank and acknowledge the staff at Story Point Senior Living and Heart to Heart Hospice for their sincere and compassionate care of Richard.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Sunday, July 14, 2024, at McClain Funeral Home, Denver, IN. with a viewing from Noon to 1:00pm with a memorial service to follow immediately in the funeral home chapel.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Twelve Mile Lions Club, c/o McClain Funeral Home, PO Box 248, Denver, Indiana 46926.

McClain Funeral Home, Denver, Indiana, has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at www.mcclainfh.com.