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On Saturday, February 6th, 2021, Warren passed away at home at the age 77. Loving husband of Carol (née Allen) for over 57 years, devoted father of Adam of Warkworth, Jonathan (Meghan) of North Saanich, BC, and Jessica (Scott) of Trenton. Lovingly joking grandfather of Tyler (Warkworth), and Ethan, Lukas, Seth and Kade (Trenton). Brother to sister Janice Kelly (Doug). Grand-dogfather to Scarlet, Sly, and Koa.
Predeceased by his parents Carl Brown and Luella (née McLeod), sister Carol and husband Jim Chilvers, and his surviving sister’s late husband Doug Elford.
Warren was born in Barrie, Ontario on October 8th, 1943, and moved to Toronto soon thereafter. Growing up in a Queen Street apartment complex nurtured his love of hockey and baseball during the day, and poker and pool during the evenings. And culminated a dedicated and lifelong love of the Toronto Maple Leafs. But he became increasingly drawn to the water and woods of a family cottage on Fishtail Lake, which inspired his deep love of hunting and fishing. And the country.
Warren graduated from York University, the Toronto Teacher’s College, and later earned his Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Toronto. A 34 year career in education began teaching in Toronto and ended retiring as the Principal of South Cramahe Public School in 1998. He developed a deep passion to educate, to discipline and inspire both the easiest and most difficult of students. Firm of resolve but gentle of spirit, he loved to challenge and inspire while using humour and eloquence to connect with all students. And co-workers. He taught in the time before current bureaucracy when many teachers shifted seamlessly to parental roles as well. He never put down the Principal’s title when leaving school grounds, yet was quick to drive a stranded student home. Or offer a personal insight. He was always Mr. Brown. A large man in a suit extending a firm handshake. With a moustache. And a ready chuckle and a booming laugh.
He and his wife Carol left the city of Toronto with two young sons in tow early in his career, to arrive in small town Castleton. Quiet nights led to a third child, and only daughter. It was here that the country drives to and from school nurtured his passions of hunting and fishing. (He could often be seen, in his suit, with a rod or a gun from the roadside). And, where he played hockey and baseball with colleagues, parents, and neighbours. Always involved, he often managed and coached the various sports teams of his children and students. It was here too, that he raised two of his cherished companions; his Weimaraner’s Ninja and Hunter. Many a weekend found them driving the back roads, trekking the woods, walking the creeks, to arrive together sleeping on the couch. And a large stack of pictures attests that they fit.
After retirement, Warren leaned towards his love of poker and pool, card games and golf, and the people who shared in them. And, deeper into his love of all things water and woods. Rarely with a wrench in hand but often with a bolt in can he grew to love the garden and grass, and the asparagus patch. The bird feeders were a constant struggle between feathered friend and furry interlopers. The boat and the barbecue were his invite to conversation with the neighbours and passerby’s at the Castleton General store. And, the many students who stopped to say, “Hey Mr. Brown”.
His son Adam, friend Ted, neighbour Terry, and brother-in-law Doug accompanied him on endless adventures over land and water from dawn until dark. Pictures of all seasons with pure childhood laughter and men’s beaming smiles. And so many fish. Sometimes they fell out of the boat just to be closer to them. They, and his adopted Methune Lake Hunt Camp family became his refuge to wash away the common day with thrills of the hunt, bends of a rod, raised toasts, shared laughter, and the tall tails of the-almost-got-it’s that got away. The inspiration of competitive brotherly glances through the sleepy eyed windows and doors at dawn that eventually filled freezers and fed families. And earned him more than a few bucks through the years…
Warren was the devoted counterpart to his soulmate and life’s true love, his dance partner of 64 years, Carol. Childhood sweethearts, they skated hand in hand through the years unfalteringly, with her love of large earrings evenly balanced by his love of bad hats. That big man with the silver haired lady. All things led to home and family. Endless shoulder rides and magical sleeping teleportation to bed. A sudden scare at a Halloween door. With an afterward laugh and personable costume compliment. He was a loving father who never complained of the endless drives to rinks and ball diamonds, of constantly tying hockey and figure skates or untangling fishing line, helping with homework or chasing baseballs. He loved to laugh through it all with the odd sprinkle of curse. And when his grandchildren Tyler, Ethan, Lukas, Seth, and Kade arrived he was always quick with a joke, and quicker still to judge and yell the score for their dives from the rocks or the raft. A gentle removal of a hook from a brother’s head or finger. A quick grab of a grandson’s arm to keep him in the boat. A never complaining pillow while repeatedly watching the Hulk. The guttural “Hulk will smash”.
When winter’s cold arrived, so too did Warren and Carol to a warmer land. Florida beckoned with the sounds of laughing friends, shared meals, long walks, short swims, flashing decks of cards with hard won “pots”, long piers, and the splash of larger fish. Sunburnt sons, daughters, family, and grandchildren with impatient empty hooks. And bigger earrings and funnier hats. Colourful shirts and shorts amidst evening strolls and golf. Watching hockey with Roger. And full glasses of joy and laughter… Always laughter…
He was the chair inside the door. To protect Mom and to greet all comers. The hum in the kitchen making chili, cooking venison, moose, or fish. A bed for sleeping dogs. The driver while you slept. Bad birthday song singing. The reason why the sons and grandsons kiss the first fish to herald good fishing. And their love for all boats. An echo in his daughter’s steps through her own school’s halls. Breakfast and a ride to the third island every opening day. The mantras of where not to point the gun and where to cast. And sooo much more.
If you listen closely, you can hear his whisper as you aim. His following footsteps in the mountains. His laughter during movies. His deep sniffs near Meghan’s Christmas baking. His “get ready” as the rod bends. His “watch out for the rocks” to Scott when he drives the boat. And, when you dive into the lake, the score of “That was a solid 8”…
And…Good night Carol, every single night…
Good night Warren…
Sweet dreams Dad…
Just one more Grandpa…
The Brown family would like to offer a heartfelt thank you to the caring staff at Northumberland Hills Hospital, St. Elizabeth Health Care, Dr. MacNeil and the staff at the Colborne Clinic, and especially the singular palliative care doctor, Dr. Mulé…
I am so sorry to the family for your loss. I was a student at south cramahe public school when Mr. Brown was a principal there. I have very fond memories of him and he made a huge impact on us as students. He will be greatly missed Katie
TO THE FAMILY MY CONDOLENCES ,A BIG GUY WITH A GREAT BIG HEART.BOOMING LAUGH AND A PRECISE TIMING TO GET A ONE UP...LOVE YA BIG GUY CAUSE YOU FORGAVE ME WHEN I COULDNT NET THE PICKERAL THAT WAS TO BIG FOR THE NET...AND IM SORRY FOR SENDING MY KIDS TO SCHOOL WITH A TURKEY HEAD IN A BAG,TO LEAVE ON YOUR DESK......YOUR BOOMING LAUGH HEARD THROUGH OUT THE SCHOOL.....SEE YA SOON ENOUGH MY FRIEND... FIND THAT PERFECT FISHIN HOLE WOULD YA.... ed van egmond
To Carol, Adam, Jonathan, and Jessica, I wanted to send my condolences to you on the loss of Warren. I have distant but fond memories of all the time I spent at your house and cottage in my teen years with Warren always being the guide and voice of reason for everyone and everything they were doing. He was a good man. I know you will miss him. I am thinking of you all. May the great memories comfort you during this time of sadness. Nikki Bovoletis (Boycott)
Our heartfelt condolences to you Carol, and to the entire Brown family. “Mr. Brown” will be remembered as a Leader, Educator, Mentor and Community man. We fondly remember him at the arena cheering Tyler on, but also encouraging all of the other players. The boys also looked forward to his quick wit remark to them after them game. Chance still plays chess and teaches others, thanks to Mr. Brown – even after retirement, he couldn’t stop teaching so volunteered at the school to teach the Gr.5’s the strategic game. He was a force, a presence and a highly respected man, we know you will miss him terribly. You will remain in our prayers, Kevin, Michelle, Chance, Madi & Sawyer White
Dear Carol and family, I was so sorry to read of Warren's passing. It brought back happy memories of our families together at Park Vista.. David and Dan said how much they liked Warren as a teacher and have good memories of Warren's time at Burnham. Please extend my sincere sympathy to the whole family, Ann
Carol an family, so sorry to hear of Warrens passing, you are in my thoughts an prayers, Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, but love leaves a memory no one can steal.
Dear Carol I'm thinking of you and your family at this sad news of your loss. Although Warren was a dear friend to so many he was better know to me through the stories I heard of life with him as told with loving humour by you Carol. May those wonderful memories you share bring comfort to you and your family in the days ahead.
Our sincere condolences to Carol and the family...I just learned of Warrens passing 2 hours ago...so when I got home I went to mcCoubreys site to read his obituary...and what a wonderful tribute it was....that's the way we will remember Warren...a lovely man full of fun and mischief...a true friend and a dedicated husband and father...we will keep your family in our prayers...RIP...Warren...sincerely Rosemary and Jamie Taylor
Carol and family we are so sorry to hear of your loss. Warren was always so happy and outgoing and will be missed by so many. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sincerely. Les and Ann
Carol we are so sorry to hear the passing of Warren Our heart goes out to you and the family, .. He was a kind wonderful happy person he will be missed.... Cherish all the wonderful memories you' s have made ❤❤
Sincere condolences to you Carol and your children. You may not remember me, but I helped in the library at South Cramahe when you were there. Mr. Brown was principal there when my granddaughter started school. For her he was a giant of a man with a heart filled with love for all the students.
My deepest, most heartfelt condolences are with you and your family.
To Warren’s family, I send my deepest condolences to you as you make your way through these troubling times. I had the pleasure of working as Warren’s VP at MJ Hobbs. It was a year of lasting memories for me. Since my husband was also named Waren, I was able to shake my head and say, ‘Oh, Warren,’ and be safe in the knowledge that no one would know to whom I was referring. Once I introduced him to a friend who was a probation officer when he came in for a student conference. His name was Tom Collins. Warren heard his name once, found a memory hook, and when the meeting was over he thanked Tom Mix for coming in. We had great fun.
I worked with Warren at South Cramahe. He was always inspiring for both students and teachers. He was greatly appreciated and will be missed. RIP
Sending my great condolences to the Brown Family. I spent many years with Jessica as well with her family. I will never the great trip's to the cottage, the CN, shopping trips as well just hanging out in the home. Warren was a great man and always had a great sense of humor. There will always be great memories in the Brown's home.
As a longtime childhood friend of Mr Brown’s daughter Jessica. I had the privilege of knowing her dad as a VP in his work life, as well as a father figure when I spent many a sleepover at their home in Castleton. I remember he always referred to me as “Babs”, which I accepted and quite liked, although I wouldn’t have questioned regardless. His big laugh, love of weimaraners and commanding presence are my most vivid memories. My deepest sympathies to you Mrs. Brown/Carol, Jessica and the whole family. Thinking of you. Xo
Dear Carol and family, I am sorry to hear of Warren’s passing. Your wonderful tribute to him captures how we all felt about Warren - a big man with an even bigger sense of humour. And laughter! He always was ready with his own and to encourage it with others. He was a good person to spend time with. Take care, Carol.
Thinking of you at this sad time .My condolences to you,Carol and all your family.
My sincere condolences to Carol and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dear Carole: I was surprised to hear of Warren's passing the other day. I am very sorry for your loss. May God's love protect you as you travel this new path alone. You have a good family and friends who will help you through this time. Sue and Joe La Berge.
Carol, Adam, Jonathan, Jessica and family, I send to you my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. The Brown family was a constant in my life from an early age and Warren was a great guy. I know you will all miss him terribly. May so many wonderful memories of a life well lived bring you peace and comfort in the days ahead.
Our sincerest condolences to Carol and family during this difficult time! Hold on tight to your beautiful memories of your Husband, Dad, Grampa and Friend. Jayne Atkinson and family
I remember when we first moved in, Warren came over with Jessica and Ninja to welcome us to Castleton. Our children spent a lot of time over at the Brown’s house and enjoyed every minute. Warren also taught Chess at the school. I will miss his laughter, kindness and his commanding voice!
Carol and family I'm so sorry to hear about Warren's passing away. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family at this sad time
I am so sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
I am so sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
I never knew Mr.Brown, but had the opportunity to have Mrs. Brown as my grade two teacher at Percy Centennial. Every time I leave Warkworth to head back to Stouffville, I notice the yellow house sitting just past the general store and think of her. May your memories of a husband, father and grandfather be stirred and enjoyed as you go through the days ahead. My sincerest condolences to family and friends.
Yours thoughts & prayers are with Brown Family for the lose of husband & father, grandfather. From Ernie , Wanda, Brittany, Brayden Dunk.
My sincere condolences to the Warren family. Mr. Brown was the best principle South Cramahe ever had. A gentle giant who cared for all the students. It was because of Mr. Brown's generosity that I for the first time ever got to go to Canada's Wonderland for my hard work as a "milk maid". That's what he called us, the students that would collect milk money from other students and give them a glass of white or chocolate milk. Heaven has gained an amazing angel.
Hi there we are Doug's cousins and we met you up at fishtail we had great times there with you and Warren nothing I can say will relieve your pain but we do send our condolences I didn't even know he was a teacher he was a great kind man from what we knew of it sending you heartfelt sympathy 🙏🏻
Dear Carol and family, I had the honour of being a colleague of Warren’s as a fellow principal in Northumberland/Clarington. He was well-liked by all and we too appreciated his laughter and camaraderie that you describe so well in his obituary. A gentle giant. I have fond memories of Warren from our years of working together. I extend my sympathies to all of you. Sincerely Wayne McCurdy
Carol, you would know me as Heather McCracken. I just want to give you my heartfelt condolences. Warren was a great man. Sending hugs your way.
What a wonderful tribute to Warren. He was a great boss and a wonderful neighbour. I worked with him at MJ Hobbs and I'll never forget him telling me that he drove all the way from his beloved home in Castleton everyday. Where is that I asked coming from the city? Ironically, a few years later, he welcomed us to Castleton when we moved two doors away. One thing that was certain in our conversations is that he loved Carol and was very proud of his children and grandchildren💓.
We were so very sad to learn of Warren's passing. Mr. Brown was an important part of our family's life, being the principal at South Cramahe School and dealing with our 3 boys. He was firm but always in a kind way, and always cared about the kids. A big personality, with an even bigger heart. He will be missed by many.
Our condolences to the family ! Was wonderful man to work with when he was at South Cramahe . Had an immense of respect for Warren .
How time flies. We have missed so many of our friends during this pandemic and now we are missing Warren even more. We have to remember to stay more in touch with our friends while we have the chance. Take care Carole. You had a good mate there. I hope you will keep in touch.
Our sincere condolences to you Carol and your family. Warren was such a great man and will be missed by many for sure. May he Rest In Peace and may you find comfort in your treasured memories.
Our sincerest sympathy to the entire Brown family. We have some great memories with lots of laughter of hockey trips with Warren, Carol and their wonderful family.
We were so saddened to hear of Mr Brown's passing. Our condolences to all of his family. May your memories bring you comfort in the days ahead. He will be well remembered by his former students and their families.
My condolences to Warren's family. Warren was my principal at South Cramahe in the early 90's. He was always a fair man. The only staff that would let us play tackle football as long as no one got hurt. He'd jump in and throw the odd pitch at recess. And my favourite memory, a story I share with many, is bumping into him on cold, November mornings in the middle of deer season, when we were both supposed to be at school. Rest in peace, Mr. Brown.
So sorry, Carol, your family and extended families, for your loss. Ross & Mary Moore
Our condolences to the family. Mom & Dad always said you were great neighbours for the many many years you shared bordering properties. Zack loved learning & playing chess with Warren. May he Rest In Peace & may you all enjoy the many happy memories you have shared
Carol and family. Heartfelt sympathy in the loss of Warren. I did not know him well, but remember him fondly as a warm, caring man that loved life.
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So very sad to hear of Warren's passing. Our deepest condolences to the family. He was a good man and he will be missed.
So sorry to hear of Warren's passing. We first met Mr. Brown when he transferred to South Cramahe at Christmas time. He saved the school year for Niki and she graduated proudly from the school she had attended for 9 years. After some difficutly, David graduated 2 years later. We often talk of Mr. Brown and agree he was the best principal ever. He was feared and loved and, oh, so fair. He earned the respect of parents as well as their cooperation. He will be lovingly remembered.
My sincere deepest condolences on the great loss of Warren. He truly left a mark everywhere he traveled.... a laugh that would lift your spirits.... bless him...