Obituary of Stephen John Brown

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Stephen John Brown, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, who left us on January 1, 2024, at the age of 72. Stephen was a dedicated service manager at EMC, former owner of the Red Baron Tavern in Worcester, a proud Dad and Grandfather, and a pillar of his community.

Born to John and Jean Brown in Worcester, Massachusetts, Stephen's journey began in Central Mass. He graduated from North High School in Worcester and continued his education, earning a degree in Computers from Johnson and Wales. In the 70s, while working at Checkmaster, he crossed paths with the love of his life, Dianne. Their love story unfolded, and they were married on April 26, 1975. Prior to EMC, Stephen owned the Red Baron Tavern in Worcester and he also worked at Digital Corporation for many years where he worked in and later led field service. Throughout both his Digital and EMC careers, he was involved with attending many tradeshows where he travelled all over the country. Stephen loved to travel and sent many postcards to Dianne and Rachel from wherever he went.

Settling in Northboro and later Shrewsbury, Stephen and Dianne built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished family moments. Annual trips to Cape Cod became a tradition, where Stephen's passion for fishing and golfing thrived. His enthusiasm for golf extended to his participation in various leagues with lifelong friends, relishing rounds at Westborough Country Club and Juniper Hills Golf Course in Northboro.

A skilled handyman, Stephen took pleasure in working around the house, leaving behind a legacy of a gazebo, a rock wall, and a meticulously tended yard. He found joy in hosting family gatherings, where he manned the grill and barbecued. 

Stephen was a proud member of St. Mary's Parish in Shrewsbury, a testament to his deep faith and sense of community. Upon retiring in 2004, he and Dianne relocated to Port Saint Lucie, Florida where they could be closer to Dianne’s Mother Camille who resided in Fort Pierce at the time. In his retirement, Stephen obtained a real estate license, embracing new challenges and opportunities. He also took care of Dianne who was terminally ill. Stephen and Dianne loved being in the Sunshine State. They both loved the warm weather and enjoyed spending time near the ocean.

After Dianne's passing in 2012, Stephen spent five years in Florida before returning to Massachusetts in 2017. During his last few years in Florida, he made many friends and loved to be out on the water fishing and bowling with friends as well. Stephen had many friends both in Massachusetts and Florida. Stephen had a warm personality and enjoyed meeting new people wherever he went. Throughout his life, Stephen cherished the role of grandfather, finding unparalleled joy in moments spent with his grandchildren, Robbie and Joey.

Stephen was predeceased by his beloved wife, Dianne Brown, and is survived by his loving daughter Rachel Palmer and her husband Rob of Litchfield, NH and his two grandsons, Robbie and Joey. He leaves behind a caring sister, Judith Duff of Berlin, MA, and countless friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Stephen’s life will be celebrated during a memorial service at St. Mary’s Parish, 640 Main St, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, on Saturday, January 13, 2024 at 10 AM. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Stephen’s memory to the American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692, www.heart.org 

For online guestbook, tribute video and service information, please visit www.sullivanfuneralhome.net