Obituary of William L. Brown, Jr.
"Semper Fidelis"

Age 79, of Montour Falls, passed away unexpectedly on August 24, 2025.

He was born July 27, 1946, in Elmira, NY to William L. Brown Sr. and Maxine Campbell.

Bill was a man of habit and routine. He lived his life dedicated to the principals and values instilled in him by the Marine Corps. A decorated veteran, Purple Heart recipient, and proud patriot, he honorably served two tours in Vietnam. His second as a scout dog handler with his best four-legged friend; his German Shepherd, Gary, who he claimed was also his savior. Bill had a passion for guns, hunting, and outings with his family and close friends. Over the years he was fortunate enough to travel with many of them throughout the United States and Canada in pursuit of unforgettable outdoor adventures. Bill treasured the years he spent logging side by side with his son Patrick. Together, they built a business that focused on selective logging practices and maintaining the health of our forests for future generations. When he wasn't in the woods, you could find him at his favorite local spot "bothering the waitresses", where he enjoyed camaraderie, sarcasm, and a HOT cup of coffee. Despite his hard-shelled personality, the presence of his cherished grandchildren or a service dog instantly melted his tough exterior. He was never without a bag of goodies for them or his four-legged companions.

Bill was predeceased by his siblings, Patricia Besley and Betty Jane Brown, his brother-in-law, Karl Haischer. He is survived by his children, Scott Brown, Abby (Shawn) McGrogan, Jessy Brown, and Patrick (Corissa Hyde) Brown; grandchildren, Sarah (Stephen) Schwader, Alyssa Payne, Evan Brown, Ella McGrogan, Weston Brown, Waylon Brown, Weldon Brown, and Willah Brown; great-grandchildren, Brayden and Logan Schwader; siblings, Terry (Sally) Brown, John (Laurie) Brown, Roxanne Haischer, Randy (Cherie) Brown and brother-in-law, George Besley; many cherished nieces and nephews; his girls, Rashanna Gee and Carrie Zimmer, and his longtime friend, Paul Beach.

Family will receive friends at Woodlawn National Cemetery at 1:00PM on September 9, 2025, where

Military Honors will be accorded. His Celebration of Life will follow at his favorite spot; Chef's Gathering, 380 State Route 14, Montour Falls, NY 14865.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing may remember Bill by planting a tree in his honor or with a donation to the Vietnam Dog Handler Association - www.vdha.us or to a local veterans service agency of your choosing.