Mr. Steven F. Brown, 72, of Galesburg, Illinois passed away at the home of his daughter, Stephanie, after a brief illness.
Steve was born September 11, 1951, in Galesburg, the son of David J. “Jim” and Sharon “Norma Dean” (Murray) Brown, Sr. He married the love of his life, Nancy Jennings on July 26, 1975, in Galesburg and was married for 49 years. She survives.
Also, surviving is his daughter and pride and joy, Stephanie Brown or lovingly called, “Shorts”, of Galesburg and his son, Brian (Kim) Fry of Union, Kentucky; his siblings, Richard (Tammie) Brown of Dahinda, Illinois, Jim Brown of Galesburg and Lelica (Gordon) Carlson of Galesburg; and his grandchildren, Marlon and Keira Morrow and Chelsea, Hannah, and Ellie Fry. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, David Brown, Jr.
Steve graduated from Galesburg High School in 1969 and later from Carl Sandburg College with an associate degree in automotive repair. He was a gearhead and enthusiast of anything with a motor. This love of tinkering and wrenching cars turned into his lifelong career. Steve owned and operated Smith & Allen Garage since 1988.
He had a rough exterior but truly had a heart of gold. Steve took pride in being the old school neighborhood mechanic. He loved his wife, spoiling his daughter, his grandchildren, and his dogs. Steve was a simple man, loving his Pepsi or a cold beer. He was a collector of cars and original Star Trek memorabilia and videos. He also enjoyed spending time on his HAM radio.
Steve played and coached men’s slow pitch softball and sometimes served as the umpire for over 20 years He had a love of roller skating and competition benchrest shooting. Steve and Nancy bred Alaskan Malamutes and had nine of their own over the years. Steve could often be found watching NASCAR or boating on the river.
Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m.to 12:00 Noon, Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel. Funeral services will follow at Noon at the chapel with Deacon Michael Crummer officiating. Memorials may be given to the family. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com
