Wilma Claire Brown

Newbury, Township, Ohio – Wilma Claire Brown, age 94, passed away on Saturday, December 27, 2025. She was born on February 19, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Clara (Ruzicka) and William Charles Knourek. Growing up in Chicago, Wilma graduated from Riverside High School in 1949, in Brookfield, Illinois. Wilma continued her education earning a bachelor's degree from the former Colorado A & M College, and enjoyed living in Colorado for a time. She also resided in Hawaii (when her husband was in the Navy), California, Connecticut, Wisconsin, but of all the places she lived, she claimed the east side of Cleveland was her favorite, and the most beautiful.

Wilma was a teaching assistant, before coming to Russell Township and becoming the gift shop manager at Candlelight and Hallmark. She had a love of horses and horseback riding. Her horses named Mare, Marmie were her prized companions. Wilma also held a love for her furry friends, often having a dog or cat in her home. In her younger days (her 70’s and 80’s) she loved spending time swimming at Punderson and traveling when she could. Playing bridge with her friends was a great joy for Wilma. She spent the majority of her time with family and friends and enjoyed going to as many of her great-grandchildren’s events as possible.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Pamela Brown; and her sister, Joyce Fiedler. Survivors include her daughter, Shelley K. Brown of Novelty, Ohio; four grandchildren, Micah (Amy) Sharpe, Jonathan Sharpe, Marah (Nathan) Miner, and Susanna Knight; eleven great-grandchildren, Marlo, Noelle, Norah, Andrew, Nicholas, Will, Campbell, Reid, Piper, Aila, and Indie; as well as two nephews, Bruce & Brent Fiedler.

A celebration of life will be held at 3:00 PM on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at Gattozzi and Son Funeral Home, 12524 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, Ohio, 44026. Calling hours will be held on Sunday, January 11th from 1:00 PM until the time of services. Memorial contributions may be made to any animal rescue group of your choice. Share a fond memory or condolence at www.gattozziandson.com.