Ralph Brown

Ralph Stewart Brown,91, passed away on May 24, 2021.  He was born on June 12, 1929 to Harold Brown and Ruth Ladd Brown.  Ralph is preceded in death by both parents; brothers Byron L. Brown, Robert L. Brown, and John L. Brown.  He is survived by his wife Mary Jo Brown; children Mary L. Robertson Kay (John), Linda K. Howe (Terry), Stewart Brown (Constance), Kathleen Marshall, Mona Smith; step-children Eric Siepman (Tammy), Ken Siepman (Julie), Crystal Creasey (Fred); grandchildren Mariah Robertson, Christopher Howe, Michael Howe, as well as 7 step-grandchildren and 7 step-greatgrandchildren.  Ralph graduated from Wiley High School class of 1947. He then graduated from Indiana University with a marketing degree in 1951. While attending IU he was a member of the Air Force ROTC program at I.U.  Ralph served in the United States Air force reaching the rank of 1st Lieutenant.  He was a pilot during the Korean War and was stationed in Japan flying support missions into Korea with the 315th Troop Carrier Group (1951-1955.) After his discharge from the Air force he became part owner of Clay Ladd Insurance for 24 years.  Ralph’s second career in aviation started as a pilot for Britt Airways.  He was a flight instructor for American TransAir at Indiana State University,as well as an instructor for Mills Aviation, Vincennes University.  Ralph received an FFA Airframe and Powerplant certificate from American Trans Air of Indianapolis.  He retired in 1995.  Ralph was active for several years volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, engaging in construction. He had many hobbies which included photography, physical fitness, participated in many track and field, swimming competitions with the White River Games.  He was a dedicated fan of all his grandson’s sporting events and his granddaughter’s artistic accomplishments.  Ralph took great pride in his cooking skills. He had a hearty appetite to enjoy his gourmet delights. A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, June 26 at Central Christian Church on East Wabash. Visitation one hour before service. Burial with full military rites at Marco Cemetery later that day. Rev. Rebecca Zelensky will be officiating. 

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