Kenneth Lee Brown

He was born May 8, 1945 in Portland, the son of Robert and Irene (Liberty) Brown, the eldest of three children raised on a dairy farm on Greely Road in Cumberland, Maine. Ken experienced lifelong challenges to his mobility, in addition to being essentially nonverbal. Despite this, he never allowed himself to be limited by his disability. Ken spent much of his life surrounded by loved ones who, despite the instinct to be protective, never treated him differently. He had a strong work ethic and an attention to detail and was a true task master from start to finish. When doing farm chores, splitting firewood, and mowing grass ( down to the last blade) on his riding lawn tractor, he excelled at adapting and persisting even when his medical issues presented obstacles.

In recreation, too, Ken was never excluded. He enjoyed fishing, gardening and he spent many days playing baseball with family and friends—and cheering on the Boston Red Sox, his favorite team. He also nurtured a special appreciation for the arts, using it as a form of expression when he was unable to otherwise communicate. His creativity was manifested in his painting, coloring, and musical pursuits; he was known to play tunes on the piano that reflect his mood. At St. Joseph’s, he could often be found tapping and dancing along to music from his chair. He also learned to enjoy quiet moments, and used his attentive patience to develop a keen eye for jigsaw puzzles.

When Ken transitioned to St. Joseph’s in 2002, his world expanded and his positive, irrepressible spirit endeared him to staff and residents alike. He was so happy there, surrounded by friends every day.

He is survived by two siblings Karen Strattard & husband Bruce and Ron Brown & wife Sally; nieces and nephews Stuart Brown & wife Keri, Chris Hein & husband Peter, Brian Strattard & wife Jane, Thomas Strattard & wife Erika, and Joseph Strattard & wife Lindsay; several great nieces and nephews.

Ken’s family would like to express our deepest gratitude to Dr. Marino and the incredible staff of St. Joseph’s for their compassionate care and steadfast friendship to Ken.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 29th at 2PM, at the Congregational Church in Cumberland at 282 Main Street in Cumberland, Maine.

In lieu of flowers, it would be especially appreciated if donations would be made to the St. Joseph Rehabilitation & Residence Activity Fund, 1133 Washington Ave, Portland, ME 04103

Arrangements are with Lindquist Funeral Home, One Mayberry Lane, Yarmouth.

Online condolences may be shared with his family at www.lindquistfuneralhome.com