Claude M. "Doc" Brown

Claude M. "Doc" Brown passed away on June 6, 2017, hours before his 81st birthday, and after a long battle with dementia--his family at his side. He was born on June 7, 1936 at home in Perry to Claude S. and Edna M. (Cross) Brown. Survivors include his wife, Mary Jane "Janie" (Peterson), sons Kenneth (Ann) and Shane (Joan), grandchildren Heather Leonbruno, Emmalee and Lukis Stevens, Alyssa, Kyle, Willow and Kendra Brown, great-grandchildren Quinn Koster and Callie Jane Kovatch, sisters June, Beverly, Barbara, Susan, and his loyal beagle, Cookie. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Renee M., his brothers William and Wesley, and his parents. A lifelong Perry resident, Doc graduated from Perry High School in 1955. A four-sport letterman, he earned a spot in the PHS Athletic Hall of Fame. At the age of 12, Doc's work ethic was born as he rode his bike to his first job at Wayside Gardens in Perry, where he worked until graduation. His official career began at Diamond Shamrock, where he worked for 38 years as a lab technician, while simultaneously launching C.M. Brown and Sons Nursery, now known as C.M. Brown Nurseries, Inc. Doc and Janie purchased a fixer-upper and abandoned farm in 1965, and began growing vegetables in the hours after his day job. In 1970, the business shifted to nursery production. Beginning in plant propagation for several local nurseries, the business has evolved into a successful regional grower. Doc spent his years after retiring from Diamond (Eltech) working at his nursery, and putting a "doer" attitude into each hard days' work. He was a testament to the benefits of dedication and sacrifice. He was a man of action. When Doc took off his work boots, he greatly enjoyed traveling with Janie, hunting with his boys, golfing with his friends, woodworking, and bicycling. Due to his perseverance and competitive spirit, he was successful throughout his life. He never hesitated to rush to the aid of a friend or family member in need. Above all, he loved his family very much. Visitation will be 10am-12pm Saturday June 10, 2017 at The Behm Family Funeral Home 26 River St. Madison OH 44057. A Funeral service will follow at 12 noon with Pastor Jim Jensen. Final resting place is Perry Cemetery. Family asks that contributions be made in Doc's name to U.H. Brain Health and Memory Center, U.H. of Cleveland Institutional Relations and Development, P.O. Box 94554 Cleveland OH 44101. Friends may leave condolences at www.behmfuneral.com