Don Earl Browne

Don Earl Browne, 85, of Bowling Green, Ohio, passed away in his home on Saturday, February 7, 2026, surrounded by family. 

Don was born in his parents’ home in Haskins, Ohio, on November 21, 1940, to Earl and Eva Browne. Growing up in Haskins, he met his childhood sweetheart, Diane Sheperd, and they married on August 31, 1963. They would go on to become best friends and partners for 62 years. He was part of the last graduating class of Haskins High in 1963, where he proudly wore the number 33 for the varsity basketball team. Following high school, he attended the University of Toledo, receiving a degree in Biology. Following graduation, he worked at the Lucas County Health Department until his retirement in 2003. 

When he wasn’t working, Don enjoyed a variety of wonderful hobbies. His children recall many occasions when he would arrive home from work, and they would pack the car to leave on a camping trip or other fun activity for the weekend. He loved to fish and spend time in nature. He is fondly remembered for his mischievous nature, frequently pulling pranks or using sneaky moves to get ahead in a card game. In retirement, he enjoyed serving others, adventures with his wife, and watching sports.

Don leaves behind a legacy of devoted and quiet service. A man of few words, he showed his deep love for his family, friends, and community through unprompted acts of kindness. He had a remarkable ability to recognize need and to address it diligently without any desire for recognition. He would frequently leave behind amusing notes or fun surprises for loved ones. His decades of service offer overwhelming evidence of his commitment to thinking of others before himself. He did his best to serve and love others like his Savior, Jesus Christ. 

He and Diane joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in November 1971 and served in many volunteer positions throughout their lives. 

He is survived by his wife, Diane Browne, his daughters, Debbie (Steven) Anderson, Deanna Bailey, Denise (Jeffrey) Lake, and Danielle (Jim) Even. He will be dearly missed by his grandchildren Jessica (Shane) Turner, Abigail (Rob) Wallette, Kayla (Brandon) Fagan, Victoria (Jeremy) Green, Connor (Katie) Even, Emily Larsen, Parker (Megan) Lake, Carter Even, Alyssa (Jason) Heckel, Samantha (Henry) Giles, Hailey Even, Alexis Bailey, and Carly Lake. Don also leaves behind 9 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his two brothers and friends, Jim (Ginny) Browne, and Dave (Jane) Browne. He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Eva Browne. 

A private, family service will be held on Tuesday, February 17th at Newcomer Funeral Home before his interment at Union Hill Cemetery.

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