Gerald "Mike" Brown's Obituary
Gerald Michael Brown – “Mike”
December 18, 1942 - April 2, 2025
Broken Arrow, Oklahoma – Mike Brown, 82, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, April 2, 2025.
Born on December 18, 1942, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Mike was the son of the late Clarence Edward and Mary Margaret Brown. His family lived in Jenks, OK, where he graduated from Jenks High School in 1960. This is where he met and later married Janice M. Yarborough. After graduation, Mike attended Connors State College and later transferred to the University of Tulsa. He played football for both schools, and it was an important part of his lifelong love of sports. He graduated from the University of Tulsa in 1966 and was
soon after drafted into the military during the Vietnam War. He went to basic training in El Paso, Texas and was then stationed in Anchorage, Alaska. He and his wife lived in Alaska for 2 years where they welcomed their son, Lance. After serving his military duty, they returned to Tulsa. They had two more children, daughters Monica and Haley. The family moved back to Jenks becoming the 3rd generation of Brown’s to graduate from Jenks High School.
Mike spent his entire career with the Tulsa Park and Recreation Department. His last position was Superintendent of District 3. Through his work, he became involved with Special Olympics and was awarded a Service to Mankind Award by the Sertoma Club of Tulsa. His work reflected his deep care for his community and his love for outdoor spaces. He met his 2nd wife, Dana through his job and they were later married on October 10, 1998. Mike became a stepfather to 3 wonderful young boys, Ryan, Chris and Selleck.
Mike loved sports. He spent many a weekend involved in his children’s wrestling events and his grandchildren’s basketball and baseball games. He regularly volunteered for National Senior Games. He played “Senior” softball well into his 70’s and even played pickleball before many had heard of the sport. Whether on the field or cheering from the sidelines, his enthusiasm was always apparent. He loved spending time at Grand Lake as often as possible. His passion for fishing offered serene moments shared with friends and family, creating cherished memories by the water's edge. Ever accompanied by his beloved dogs and a new book, Mike's days were filled with simple pleasures and loyal companionship.
He is survived by his son, Lance Brown, his daughters Monica (Andy)Crider and Haley Volpe, and his step-sons Ryan (Trisha) Short, and Chris Short; his brothers, Larry (Debbie) Brown and Tony (Sue) Brown; and his grandchildren, Bo Brown, Max Brown, Nate Crider, Ryan Crider, Lauren Volpe, Nick Volpe, Olivia Volpe, Stephen Short, David Short, and John Short. He is also survived by 3 great grandchildren, several nieces, a nephew, extended family and many friends. Mike was joined in passing by his spouse, Dana Brown on April 7, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence Edward Brown and Mary Margaret Brown; and his stepson, Selleck Short.
Mike's gentle spirit touched the lives of all who knew him. His quiet acts of kindness and warm humor left an indelible mark on the hearts of his family and friends. His legacy reminds us of the profound impact of compassion and the joy found in everyday moments
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