Donald W. Brown

Donald W. Brown, 91, of Mason City, died Thursday, August 18, 2016 at the IOOF Home. Private family services will be held at a later date. Per Don’s request, his body will be cremated. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the NIACC Foundation.

Don was born July 21, 1925 in Boone, Iowa the son of John and Bessie (Snedden) Brown. He graduated from Boone High School and served in US Marines Corp during WW II in the South Pacific where he earned a Purple Heart. Following his honorable discharge from the Marines, he continued his education at what is now the University of Northern Iowa where he graduated with a degree in Social Studies and Math. Later, he earned his Masters Degree in school administration from the University of Iowa. He started teaching in Chariton, Iowa in 1949. Don married Mariestelle Miller May 31, 1950 in Mason City. In 1953, he began teaching in Mason City at Monroe Junior High and then at John Adams Junior High/Middle School until his retirement in the mid 1980’s. Don enjoyed traveling with his family, especially their summers and Christmases in Hawaii. He also enjoyed reading, golf, supporting the Iowa Hawkeyes and spending time with his family. He also liked being a part of the reading club and current events group at the IOOF home.

Don is survived by his daughter, Chrisanne (Paul) Peterson of Mason City; granddaughter, Sethanne (Bryan) DeGabriele of Mason City and a great grandson, Drew.

Don was preceded in death by his wife, Mariestelle; parents, Bessie and John Brown; mother and father-in-law, Velma and Gordon Miller and 1 brother, Robert.