Richard Brown

Richard Allison Brown January 9, 1957 – April 13, 2026 Richard Allison Brown, lovingly known as Rick, passed away on April 13, 2026, at the age of 69. Born in Glen Ridge, New Jersey, Rick lived a life defined by resilience, service, humor, and heart. After graduating from Ridge High School in Basking Ridge, New Jersey in 1975, Rick proudly served nearly three years at sea aboard a U.S. Navy destroyer before being honorably discharged. Rick began a 25-year career in the wholesale refrigeration and air conditioning industry. Never one to stop growing, he returned to school and earned both his degree and MBA from Oregon State University with honors. Following graduation, he began a meaningful second career at Oregon State University, serving as a certifying official for veterans and active military members, where he took great pride in helping and supporting those who served. Rick retired after a courageous battle with cancer. He was an active member of his church, Calvary Corvallis, where he was recently baptized on June 15, 2025. Rick is survived by his loving wife of 14 years, Sharon Sielschott, of Adair Village, Oregon; his son, Justin Brown of Tampa, Florida; his daughter, Jenna Basford of South Orange, New Jersey; his mother, Barbara Harris of Sarasota, Florida; his brothers, Randall and Thomas Brown; his sisters, Laurie Brown and Cindy Critelli; his stepbrothers, Linton I. “Skip” Harris III, John “Charlie” Harris, and Gregory Harris; and his stepsister, Lynda Humm. He was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Jack A. Brown; his stepfather, Linton I. “Chip” Harris; and his stepmother, Fay Brown. Rick loved music, sports, movies, the ocean, science fiction, weather, astronomy, reading, tending to his lawn, and finding humor in any situation. He was a lifelong fan of NFL football, especially the New York Giants, along with Notre Dame football, the New York Yankees, and the New York Knicks. Whether it was talking sports, listening to music, watching a game, or sharing a laugh, Rick had a way of making people feel comfortable and connected. He loved a good underdog story and carried that spirit throughout his own life. Intelligent, thoughtful, and full of personality, Rick approached life with curiosity, perspective, and an unmistakable sense of humor. Rick will be remembered for his infectious laughter, his good heart, his strength, and the lasting impact he made on everyone fortunate enough to know him. His memory will live on through the family he loved, the friendships he built, and the countless moments and stories shared over a lifetime. “And the road goes on forever…”

Tributes

Richard Brown

January 9, 1957 - April 13, 2026