Mark William "Bill" Brown

Mark William (“Bill”) Brown passed away peacefully on January 6, 2022, after a long illness. He was born July 24, 1929, in Salt Lake City, Utah to Mark Cummings Brown and Zelda LaFawn Gee. His family lived briefly in Ogden and Provo before moving to Santa Paula, California where his father managed a Sears store. While growing up in California, Mark attended school and worked at several part time jobs including at a lemon packing house and as a Western Union messenger during World War II. He and three friends formed “The Cats and Jammers” jazz quartet where he played the string bass. They were in much demand and played at dances all around Ventura County. Mark graduated from Santa Paula High School at age 16.

When he was 18 years-old, the family moved back to Salt Lake City and Mark attended the University of Utah where he studied art and was affiliated with the Kappa Sigma fraternity. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts. While at the university, he met his “Honey Bee” Ida Jean Brain. It was love at first sight. They were married on August 31, 1950 and began their 71 year loving partnership together.

After graduation, Mark joined his parents in the family business, Mark Brown Home Furnishings. When his younger brother, Allen, joined the business, the name was changed to Mark Brown and Sons. They were later joined by their brother-in-law, John Watson. After many long days and hard work their efforts were rewarded when they were selected to be the exclusive Ethan Allen furniture dealer in Utah, which the family operated for many years.

When he was 62, Mark retired to enjoy the fruits of his long career. Mark and Jean loved to travel, enjoying many trips together. He was an avid fisherman. Mark was an astute investor taking great pride in providing a comfortable life for the two of them. He loved his family and was a loyal supporter of everything they did. He also enjoyed good music and fine food. His excellent sense of humor was appreciated by all who knew him.
Mark was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in many callings including Elders Quorum instructor and Executive Secretary in the Bishopric. His favorite calling was in the Branch Presidency for the St. Mark’s Hospital where he ministered to patients for eight years.

Mark is survived by his beloved wife Ida Jean, their three children Mark C. (Susan), Janet E. Smith (Redd), and Paul F. (Sharon). He has seven grandchildren: Audrey Helquist (Paul), Elizabeth Brown, Caroline Smith (Tom Quinn), Mark R. Smith (Hailee), Grace Mohan (Jamie), Ivy Brown (Sam Boney), and Maggie McAllister (Todd), and two great-grandchildren, Joseph Tunno and Amelia Powell. He is also survived by his sister Barbara Watson (John) and sister-in-law Judy Brown (Allen). Mark was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Allen Gee Brown.

There will be a private graveside service for the family at the Salt Lake City Cemetery.

The family would like to thank Ofa, Siu, Liz, Monalisa, Rhonda, Wendy, and all the caregivers at The Ridge who lovingly ministered to Mark during his illness.