Source: News-Journal, August 17, 2011

Michael D. Brown (1943-2011)

Michael D. Brown, 68, North Manchester, IN died at 12:55 a.m. Wednesday, August 10, 2011 in his residence. He was born May 7, 1943 in Wichita, KS to Don S. & Phyllis Jean (Long) Brown.  He graduated from McPherson College, McPherson, KS in 1965 where he received a B.A. Degree. He then graduated from Kansas State University in 1967 receiving his Masters Degree in European History. He served in the Peace Corps in Malaysia.  On June 7, 1971 he married Judith L. Miller. 

In 1973 he and his wife, Judi, started "The Studio" in North Manchester, IN where he did jewelry repair and design as well as selling natural foods and supplements. He was a naturalist, avid tennis player, gardener and also supported local artists and musicians. Mike was active in community affairs, he was Past President of Manchester Main Street, Inc., served on multiple Chamber of Commerce committees and worked with the Historical Preservation Group.

He attended Manchester Church of the Brethren, North Manchester, IN and the Chicago (IL) and Rochester (NY) Zen Centers. In 2006, he campaigned for a seat in the US Congress.  He enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. 

Mike is survived by his wife, Judith L. Brown, North Manchester, IN; two sons, Dustin S. (Heidi) Brown, Rockville, MD and Daniel J. Brown, North Manchester, IN; two daughters, Ambrosia J. Brown, Moab, UT and Heather V. Brown, North Manchester, IN; his step-mother, Virginia "Jinkie" Brown, Wichita, KS; two half sisters, Jan Wingad, San Jose, CA and Cindy (Richard) Phinney, Wichita, KS and three grandchildren, Noah (5), Emery (3) and June (16 months).  

Meditation will be from 3:00-4:00 p.m. Sunday, September 4, 2011, followed by a Memorial Service beginning at 4:00 p.m. at Manchester Church of the Brethren, 1306 N. Beckley Street. Burial will follow at the Manchester Church of the Brethren Memorial Garden, North Manchester, IN. The family will receive friends after the burial.  Pastor Kurt Borgmann will officiate.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Michael D. Brown, memorial contributions may be made to Manchester Main Street Inc. for Community Trails Network Project, P. O. Box 26, North Manchester, IN 46962. Final care entrusted to McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 W, North Manchester, IN 46962.