BROWN, Thomas J., age 46

Died: Wednesday, November 2nd, 2011

Celebration of Life: will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 26, 2011 in the Club Room of the Coral Gables (2838 E. Grand River, East Lansing, MI 48823)

Thomas John Scott Brown, age 46, died on Wednesday, November 2, 2011.  He was riding with his beloved companion and semi-driving partner, Clara "Leeann" Wonsowicz, both from Michigan, when a highway accident took their lives near Eau Claire, Wisconsin.

Tom was born to his mother, Barbara Jean Brown, and his father, Thomas John Brown, in Lansing, Michigan on the 6th day of August, 1965.  He grew to adulthood along with his brother, Glenn John Brown, in East Lansing, Michigan. Schooled locally at Marble Elementary, MacDonald Middle, and East Lansing High Schools, he also attended Lansing Community College.

He was an accomplished guitarist and in possession of a very fine singing voice. Tom performed in a wide variety of musical styles. He was a computer specialist and a fine visual artist, in his own right.

The Brown family history led him into a serious study of military history. This stemmed originally from the study of his family lineage, an interest that he shared with his great aunt, Barbara Ann Brown. Prior to her death, she was an artist in the employ of Michigan State University for the most part of her life.

History was always important to Tom. He had an exceptional interest in the History of the Civil War. He took great pride in the family tree which began in the 1600's and includes family members that fought in and survived the civil war.

Everyone who knew Tom knew his ceaseless sense of humor was outstanding, his wisdom amazing, his intuitive knowledge and understanding profound and always well beyond his years. He was a patient friend, a loving son, brother and the sweetest of human beings. We unanimously agree it cannot be overstated that he left us far too soon.

He is survived by his mother, Barbara J. Brown; father, Thomas J. Brown; and brother, Glenn J. Brown, and his wife, Susan.  We know that he went into the light with his gentle and loving nature intact.  He will forever remain near and dear to us and always be in our hearts.

He leaves behind many other relatives and a circle of friends who will miss him greatly.

He was preceded in death by four grandparents, Josephine and Frank Gurskey of Dearborn, Michigan, and Lauren Hiram ("Hi") Brown, Ph.D. who for many years served as Professor of Agricultural Economics in East Lansing's Michigan State University and his beloved wife, Doris. 

Our debt of gratitude for their kind attention and assistance goes to Jeff and Kelly Beede.  It is, quite simply, immeasurable.