Ralph L. Brown, 88, of River Forest, died on Jan. 8, 2016. Born on Aug. 16, 1927, he grew up in Wheaton. After graduating from Dennison College, he served in the Navy, and when discharged, he met and married Barbara A. Caspers from River Forest. They were married for 42 years and had four children.
Mr. Brown went to work for Sears Roebuck & Co. and then partnered with his father-in-law in a lighting business, Guardian Light, in Oak Park. After over 40 years in that business, he retired to play seven days of golf instead of just two days a week. He shared his love for snow skiing with his family, which led to yearly trips to Colorado. A Rotarian since 1965, he was a generous donor to Hephzibah Children’s Association, and to Boys Town.
Ralph Brown is survived by his children, Karen L. (Terence) Berg, Deborah A., Douglas E. (Laura), and Steven C. (Angela Morehouse) Brown; and his grandchildren, Jason, Braxton, Brooke, and Michael. He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara; and his brother, Richard.
Visitation will be held on Friday, Jan. 22 from 4 to 8:30 p.m. at Drechsler, Brown & Williams Funeral Home in Oak Park. A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 23 at First Presbyterian Church, 7551 Quick Ave., River Forest.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Aspire Children’s Services at www.aspirechicago.com, 9901 Derby Lane, Westchester 60154 or to the Evans Scholars Foundation www.wgaesf.org, One Briar Road, Golf, IL 60029 are appreciated by the family. Visit www.dreschslerbrownwilliams.com to leave a message for the family.