Gregory Shawn Brown

If anyone ever cared, really cared for someone else it would have to be Gregory Shawn Brown. He was a warm hearted and well liked individual, and these wonderful traits came easily to him because he was such a sociable and amiable person, someone who was always making certain that those around him had whatever they needed. Greg was a talkative person who was tactful at all times but typically said what he meant.

Greg was born on May 4, 1984 in St. John’s, Newfoundland. He was the son of Theresa and Lar Whalen. Greg was raised in Bell Island NFLD and St. John's NFLD. During his childhood he learned to be reliable and respectful. Greg was an obedient child who wanted to win the favor of others. He found it easy to show sympathy and to perform kind acts for others. These admirable qualities would become a part of Greg's personality throughout his life.

Though Greg was frequently the one to initiate games and activities with his family, he was also quite often the family member who took the role of referee. Greg was a peace-maker with an ability to resolve all sorts of family conflicts. In fact, Greg worked conscientiously to keep those typical family spats at bay. Greg was raised with four siblings. He had two older brothers: Glenn and Gary, one older sister Paula and one younger sister Shannon. Greg and his siblings had the typical rivalries while growing up, but they cared deeply for one another.

As someone who reveled in the sheer joy of his experiences, Greg was always enthusiastic about new adventures. Although he had an exacting nature, Greg was always tactful. One thing Greg will certainly be remembered for is that, when he got up in the mornings, he was ready and raring to go. As a young boy, Greg had a number of interests and was an active child. Greg took part in playing soccer and softball; he was also in a boys and girls club. In his spare time he liked video games, transformers and ninja turtles. Greg's memorable achievements included receiving a trophy for tee-ball.

For Greg, the school routines were never a problem although he generally preferred variety to structure. He seemed to be able to start a project and work right through to its completion. And he was able to do it quickly and efficiently. Greg was also adept at details. Greg was very observant and was generally quick at picking up new things. He attended St. Michael's and Booth Memorial High School. He enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers. His favorite class in high school was shop. Greg enjoyed being a part of his schools sports team; he enjoyed wrestling and received a gold medal for his achievements.

College can be a challenge, but Greg appeared to be well equipped to succeed. He had a knack for staying focused and on track no matter what was going on around him. Greg had the ability to work undisturbed through all of the constant interruptions that are a regular part of life. Greg enjoyed using the skills he'd already learned and applying them to new courses. He knew the facts and rarely made factual errors. Greg received his post-secondary education in carpentry.

There was one thing that all of Greg's friends knew and will still remember, and that is that he was a talker. He could pretty much talk to anybody about anything. This quality is one of the primary reasons that Greg was such a popular person throughout his life. But Greg was also dependable, loyal and trustworthy. Greg was the kind of person who simply radiated good fellowship. While he maintained personal standards and his own personal values, Greg was very accepting of others. With a distinct skill for working things out, Greg was often the person who would organize events. In fact, Greg was fairly comfortable playing the role of “host” for just about any occasion. When Greg made friends, he made true and lasting friendships. While growing up, some of his best friends were Paddy Taplin, Freddie Penn, Paulie Butler and Egghead Gorman. Later in life, he became friends with Harold Reese.

Harmony was important to Greg and he made every effort to maintain it with his family. Greg was blessed with one child, one son Gavin who sadly passed away in 2010 from Adrenoleukodystrophy. Greg was a loving father. He was reasonable and understanding. As a result, Greg tried to solve disputes within the family and did so without much fuss. His secret of success in this area was simple: Greg would listen before he would act.

Taking his work seriously came naturally to Greg, and he expected the same from those around him. Greg was a good team player, someone who was born to cooperate with others. He was what some would call a “people person” and it was demonstrated in his good communication skills. Greg was a steady worker, one who was realistic about schedules. The kind of details that would give family members and work colleagues fits were situations that Greg handled well. He could understand the details without getting lost in the broad “big picture.” Greg worked hard as a cement finisher. He brought harmony to his work environment, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done, while always maintaining respect for his colleagues.

A methodical man, Greg enjoyed spending time working on his various hobbies. He had no problem following all of the steps and instructions on a given project and was proud of the fact that he could have something to show for his efforts. His favorite pursuits were playing his guitar and video games.

Greg was one of those people who took pride in constantly putting forth his best effort. Greg was always enthusiastic and a great team player. In high school, Greg wrestled and his recreational sports included weight training.

Greg also liked being a music fan and enjoyed following his favorite bands whenever he got the opportunity.

His high moral standards and traditional values served Greg well with his faith. Religion and faith were important to him. He was a member St. Mary's Catholic Church in Hespeler. He was well respected because he was such an outgoing individual who sought to help in any manner he could.

Not only did Greg enjoy traveling, but he also seemed to enjoy planning all of those trips and vacations. He was a facilitator who could easily make up a near perfect schedule of all of the things to do and see. He rarely tired of going back and revisiting his favorite places. Favorite vacations included Paris France and Niagara Falls.

Greg was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. His family was rounded out by his pets Sprocket, Chewie and Ratchet.

Greg passed away on January 31, 2015 at Cambridge Memorial Hospital after battling melanoma. He is survived by his brothers and sisters. Services were held at Coutts Funeral Home, Cambridge. Greg was laid to rest in Topsil Beach.

Greg was a fantastic conversationalist who could engage just about anyone in a discussion. And whenever he said something, he meant it. Greg was a down to earth person, outgoing and gregarious. He was without question the type of person who enjoyed experiencing things first hand. He was practical and sensible, but what friends and family will remember him for most is the fact that he was so understanding and kind. Everyone whose life he touched will miss Gregory Shawn Brown.

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Passed away with family by his side on Saturday, January 31, 2015 in his 31st year.

He is together again with his beloved son Gavin (2010). Son of Theresa Curnew (Lar) Whalen). Left behind to grieve are his brothers Glenn and Gary, sisters Paula and Shannon, biological father Glen (Marie) Brown, along with his nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 3, 2015 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at Coutts Funeral Home, 96 St. Andrews Street, Cambridge (519-621-1650). A Funeral Service will take place the following day on Wednesday, February 4, 2015 at 11 a.m. with visitation one hour prior in the funeral home chapel. Cremation to follow.

Special thanks to CCAC, Para Med and the 3rd floor nurses at Cambridge Memorial Hospital.