Obituary of Douglas Paul Brown

Douglas Paul Brown was born on June 8, 1948 in Grand Rapids, Ohio.   One of six children he was adopted from the union of the late Lloyd Brown and the late Nina (Vail) Brown.   Douglas was an extremely intelligent man.  He earned his plumber license through the State of Michigan and also a Journeyman card as a Pipefitter.  Douglas was employed through Local 636 and was a member of the union for 50 years. Doug was previously married to Janice Yopps ad had three children; Shane Brown, Sherri Schultz, and Stephanie Brown.

He moved to the Monroe area in 1980 to take employment at Fermi Nuclear Power Plant.   It was here that he would meet his soulmate, the former, Diane Shiflett.   The couple was joined in marriage on March 29, 1986.   From this union Doug become a step-father to Diane Shiflett and Dawn Lenhardt.   Douglas was a devoted husband and a doting father to his family.  

He had many interests and easily made friends. Doug loved music being gifted with the ability to play the organ or piano, but sometimes just jamming to Rock and Roll.   

Doug enjoyed visiting River City Art concerts, the movies, and playing golf especially with Diane who he lovingly referred to as Leroy on the course.

Douglas Paul Brown, age 69, of Monroe passed away at Medilodge of Monroe on Saturday, June 10, 2017.   In addition to his parents, his passing was preceded by two brothers: Bruce Kunkle and Donny Kunkle; and a sister: Laura Brown.

To cherish his memory, Doug leaves a beloved wife of thirty-five years:  Diane Brown of Monroe; one son:  Shane M. Brown of Bridgeman; two daughters:  Sherri (Nicholas) Schultz of Bridgeman and Stephanie Brown of Stevensville; two step daughters:  Diane H. Shiflett of Monroe and Dawn Lenhardt of Redford Township; a sister:  Trisha Hayes of Chicago; and a brother:  Dale “Butch” Brown of Puerto Rico; five grandchildren; and five great grandchildren.

Friends may gather on Saturday, June 17, 2017 from 10:00am until 12:00noon at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185.   A Celebration of His Life will take place at 12:00noon also at Merkle’s with Chaplain Jack Vanacker officiating and Jonathan Gardner rendering music.  

Memorials for those who wish are suggested to Great Lakes Caring Hospice of Adrian and the Monroe Humane Society. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, send a floral arrangement or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.