Donald Leroy Brown

Don was born on July 18, 1941, at Fort Harrison in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Lester and Genevieve Brown. He graduated from Greenfield High School in 1959, where he was a member of both the football team and the band. After high school, he proudly served in the United States Air Force as a Morse Intercept Operator aboard a C-130 aircraft. Following his military service, he attended Purdue University.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science and later went on to receive a master’s degree from Ball State University. Don spent the majority of his professional career as a Database Administrator with the Department of Defense.

In 1970, Don met Roxy Hinshaw at his own surprise birthday party in Indianapolis, hosted by mutual friends. Six months later, they were married and went on to build a life together, raising three children.

Don had a wide range of interests and hobbies, including automobiles, motorcycles, bicycling, boating, and camping. He was always eager to be among the first to try out the latest electronic gadget.

He was an avid sports fan, especially devoted to his Purdue Boilermakers and the Indianapolis Colts. Each summer, he would enthusiastically ask, “When are we going to an Indians game?!” Whether at home, at a local spot, or in the stands, Don loved cheering on his teams.

A lifelong reader, Don had a deep interest in history, particularly books about presidents and wars, along with countless works of fiction. He even enjoyed reading the owner’s manuals for every gadget he purchased.

Don was the kind of person you always wanted on your team—especially during trivia games. He was generous with his time and always ready to lend a hand, whether helping a stranded motorist or supporting family and friends. Giving back to others was important to him. In retirement, he drove a school bus, transported seniors through PrimeLife Enrichment, and volunteered with Habitat for Humanity.

As a father, Don taught his children many life skills—how to shake hands, ride bikes, play sports, drive, water ski, and even fix a leaking faucet. He helped with homework and, more importantly, instilled in them the values of hard work, integrity, and compassion for others.

Some of Don’s favorite places were on a pontoon boat at Bass Lake with a stocked cooler, walking along the beach on Sanibel Island, or relaxing in his travel trailer.

He passed away at home, surrounded by his family, while listening to his favorite music.

Don is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Roxy; his children, Tony (Kristi), Libby (Seth), and Ben (Stephanie); nine grandchildren, Casey (Shelby), Eriq (Casey), Alexa (Matt), Boyce, Coleson, Grayson, Janie, Nora, and Myles; one great-grandchild, Leo; his sister, Ramona; and several nieces and nephews.

In accordance with his wishes, no visitation or funeral will be held. The family will hold a private celebration of life. Memorial donations may be made to the PSP Foundation at curepsp.org.