Obituary of Leonard James Brown

Brown, Leonard James

Leonard passed away peacefully at the CKHA-Chatham Campus on Saturday, October 21, 2017 at the age of 96.

Leonard was born in Chatham, and was the son of the late John Ernest (Ernie) Brown (1970) and Miriam Ann Brown (Morris) (1973).

Beloved husband of the late Delores J. Brown (Zilz) since September 1946, sharing all those years together in every way, with love, devotion and happiness.

Loving brother of Mrs. Berenice Hanemaayer of Chatham.  Fondly remembered by a sister-in-law, Mrs. Maxine Everson of Michigan.

Much loved by many nieces and nephews from Canada and the U.S. 

Sadly missed by many neighbours and friends.

Predeceased by a sister Lucia Prangley (2004).

He was employed by Ontario Steel Products (1938) and retired from Rockwell International (1975), where he was superintendent of Bumper "A" stamping department for his last fourteen years. 

Leonard served in World War II and joined the Canadian Armoured Corps in September  1942 and went overseas in July 1943 with the 30th Reconnaissance Regiment (Windsor Essex Tank) and on its disbandment in England served with the 17th Duke of Yorks Royal Canadian Hussars 7th Reconnaissance Regiment, through France, Belgium, Holland and Germany to the end of hostilities. 

He was an avid member of Old CountryView and Indian Creek Golf Courses. For many years he enjoyed five pin bowling and motorcycling most of his life, riding buddy to many bikers of Chatham. He was also a member of the Chatham Touring Club and Suzuki Intruder Club.

The family will receive friends at the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham, ON, on Saturday, October 28, 2017 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., with funeral services following at 1 p.m., with Gabriella Cutler, officiating.

Donations in memory of Leonard to the Canadian Cancer Society or St. Joseph's Hospital-Parkwood Institute would be appreciated.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com.

McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040