Obituary of Carol Ethelyn Brown

Carol Ethelyn Brown (nee Brown) of Otterburne passed away on Thursday November 3, at the age of 82 years. Carol was predeceased by one brother in childhood and one son in infancy, one sister, one sister in-law, three brothers in-law and one son in-law. She is survived by her loving husband of 60 years W. Douglas Brown, children Vickie Baldwin (Ed), Evelyn Guenther (Gerry), Doris Martens, Doug, Brian (Carol), sixteen grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren. Carol was born in Carman on December 5, 1933 to parents Orville and Norma Brown. Growing up on the family farm east of Sperling, she attended Lone Star School. After attending Normal School, she taught at Crystal City. She subsequently attended Angus Business School and upon graduation taught at that school. In Winnipeg, at a gathering for young adults from the country, her cousin introduced her to Douglas Brown. Two and a half years later on September 29, 1956, they married. Late the following spring they moved to his Mum’s farm on the Red River north of Aubigny. There they farmed and raised their five children until 1965 when they moved to their current home farm west of St. Pierre. Carol participated in the farm work in many ways such as driving combine, harrowing, driving the grain truck, keeping track of the farm accounts, and bringing meals to the fields. She joined in with the Otterburne West Ladies group and enjoyed quilting, knitting, and sewing. She spent several winters curling at the local rink and in bonspiels. Her interests included board games; picture, word, and crossword puzzles; reading and playing along while watching Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune. She always enjoyed singing and the family heard a variety of popular songs while growing up. During retirement, she sang in the church choir. She loved to attend her grandchildren’s plays, musicals, and concerts and could often be heard singing along. Carol was diagnosed with diabetes when in her early fifties and was diligent in following her treatment plan. She enjoyed gardening and continued with outdoor farm work. She looked forward to having her grandchildren come for visits and sleepovers. In later years, she developed vascular dementia. As this illness progressed, she developed a stubborn streak yet maintained her gentle nature. While receiving home care she was able to remain in the family home. She continued to enjoy nature watching, doing puzzles, going for drives and visiting, attending church and going for lunch with friends. This spring, due to pneumonia, Carol was admitted to St Pierre Hospital where she remained for the past seven months. The Funeral Service for Carol Brown was held at the Morris United Church, Tuesday November 8, at 2:00 pm followed by interment at the Morris Cemetery. Arrangements by Morris Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association. The Family wishes to thank Home Care Staff and the Doctors and staff of the St Pierre Hospital for the care they gave Carol. The family also thanks those who offered flowers, food, and other expressions of sympathy.