BROWN

It is time to say goodbye to a very special man. Elmer Richard Brown of Rimbey, Alberta was born on November 25, 1928, and passed away at the Rimbey Hospital and Care Centre on September 9, 2023, at the age of 94 years.

Elmer was born on the family farm in the Forshee District, and attended Grades 1 through 9 at the Centreview School. He then travelled to Ontario in 1944 to play hockey and finish Grade 10. The following year, Elmer returned to Forshee and completed Grade 11 at the Rimbey High School. In 1946, he worked for Valley Service Garage and drove a delivery truck for Montalbetti’s. Elmer married Helen Rose “Rosie” Marek in 1951, where they lived in Bluffton before moving to Rimbey in 1952. He was employed by Barry Motors between 1952 and 1963, after which he joined Chevron Standard until 1965. That same year, Elmer and Bill McGeachy went into partnership at the Shell Service Station and Bulk Oil Agency. In 1966, Elmer and Rosie’s long-awaited daughter Tammy was born. Elmer had a rich tapestry of interests; from fishing, golfing, and baseball to dancing, singing, and playing the guitar. Among these, the family hunting trip each November held a special place in his heart, a tradition he eagerly awaited and participated in for over 50 years.

Elmer was an individual of great integrity who marched to the beat of his own drum. He was a family man who enjoyed the simple things in life. Although private by nature, Elmer was active in the community and effortlessly connected with those around him. He had a huge heart and a great sense of humour. Elmer loved to use the term, “It’s a nothing” over what he felt was unimportant, yet always with respect for others’ perceptions. He continually took care of everybody and everything, no matter the circumstances. Elmer was organized beyond measure to make things easier for others. With a rhythm all his own and a heart that knew no bounds, Elmer lived a memorable life, sharing wisdom and lessons that touched many. A life of challenges – a life well lived.

Elmer is survived by his daughter Tammy (Lyle) Matson of Bluffton; his most devoted, loving partner of 17 years, Katharina “Katie” Moser of Rimbey; and two cherished grandsons Jeffrey and Jared. He is also survived by his brother Pat Brown of Calgary; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, other family members, and many close friends. Elmer was predeceased by his parents Charles and Amelia Brown; his wife Rosie in 1997; three brothers Lloyd, Bruce, and Ray; and five sisters Alda Skeels, Linnie Pecharsky, Cora Allison, Eunice Young, and Elsie McGeachy.

With respect for Elmer’s wishes, no formal funeral service will be held. He will be laid to rest in the West Haven Cemetery at a later date. If desired, memorial donations in Elmer’s memory may be made directly to the Rimbey Seniors Drop-In Centre, Box 1352, Rimbey, Alberta T0C 2J0; or to the Rimbey Hospital and Care Centre, c/o the Rimbey Hospital Legacy Committee, Box 440, Rimbey, Alberta T0C 2J0 (www.rimbeyhospitallegacycommittee.com). Thoughts and messages to the family may be shared through the condolence area located at the bottom of this page.

Cremation Arrangements for the Late Elmer Richard Brown entrusted to the care of