Dale Brown

Dale Brown was the rare man who had both. Russell Dale Brown, 88, passed away Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at his home in Columbus, Ohio, after prolonged heart disease. Dale was born in Columbus on December 4,1936, to Allen and Elvere Brown. At age three, he began an intense curiosity about how things work by studying photos in a Montgomery Ward catalog. As a teenager, he turned that interest into practical expertise, disassembling and reconstructing mechanical and electrical appliances. After obtaining degrees in industrial management from the Ohio State University and printing management from the Carnegie Institute of Technology, he worked at a commercial printing company before establishing his own business, Brown Graphic Press. His printing of catalogs for the American Standard Company and poster exhibits for the Columbus Museum of Art were highly praised for their exceptional quality. After beginning a new career selling computers part-time, his hard work and sharp business acumen propelled him up the leadership ranks, culminating as the CEO of Micro Electronics, Inc., the parent company of the Micro Center stores. A man of amazing intellect and talent but with equal humility, Dale was a master printer and graphic arts designer, accomplished photographer, self-taught computer programmer, gifted machinist, avid muskie fisherman, steam engine enthusiast, expert problem solver, and cherished mentor. Most importantly, he was an incredibly loving and much-loved husband, father and grandfather. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife Regina (Reggie) Brown, sons Lyle Brown (Sheila) and Shannon Brown (Sarah); grandsons Michael Brown, Thomas Brown, Parker Brown, and Connor Brown; sister Beverly Pepper (Ron); brother Donald Brown (Betsy); sisters-in-law Clara Casey and Betty Patrick, and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held from 9AM to 10AM on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at Schoedinger Northwest, 1740 Zollinger Road, Columbus, OH 43221, followed by a funeral service. Dale will be buried at Union Cemetery following his services.

Those who wish to donate in his memory may do so to the charity of their choice.

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