ROBERT “BOB” DANA BROWN

Robert (Bob) Dana Brown, 89, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2026, in Sherwood, Oregon, surrounded by his loving children. Bob was preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Rita; his parents, Dana and Veronica; his siblings, Frank ( Julie), Jerry, and Madelyn Blazina; and his mother-in-law, Annabelle Aycock. He is survived by his seven children: Bill (Kristen), Trisha Leavy (Paul), Bob, Colleen McManamon (Kevin), David (D’Arcy), MaryKay, and Tim (Michelle); nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; his sister-in-law, Nancy Brown; and his brother-inlaw, Larry Aycock. 

Bob was born on December 29, 1936, in Walla Walla, Washington. He was a proud graduate of O’Dea High School in Seattle, Class of 1955, and attended Seattle University. After serving in the Army, Bob returned to Seattle, married Rita in 1963, and began his career in hospital administration. After living and working in Longview, Washington, and St. Helens, Oregon, Bob learned of an opportunity to acquire a small hospital in Deer Park, Washington. In July 1980, Bob and Rita opened Deer Park Health Center & Hospital, where they worked side by side as administrator and director of nursing. With the support of the community and their wonderful employees, they successfully owned and operated the hospital independently for 15 years. Bob also served as mayor of Deer Park from 1984 to 1987. In 1998, Bob and Rita retired to Chelan, Washington, and in 2004, they moved to Durham, Oregon. 

Bob later lived in King City and Sherwood, Oregon, for the remainder of his life. Bob enjoyed Costco, camping, traveling with Rita, revisiting places they shared, drinking Gibsons, and eating tacos. Many happy family memories were made celebrating St. Patrick’s Day and Christmas (his love of Christmas lights and decorations was legendary!), and spring break ski trips to Sun Valley. At age 70, he completed his first marathon, demonstrating that it is never too late to take on a challenge. He was adored by his children and grandchildren, who especially loved hearing his campfire tales about working on his uncle’s farm in Walla Walla and living in the wilds of Alaska. Based on some of the eyebrow-raising stories he told, we’re all a little surprised he made it to 89! 

Bob and Rita cherished their years living in Deer Park and raising their children there. They were grateful for the community’s support of their efforts to provide local healthcare, and their time there remained an important part of their lives. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, November 24, 2026, at 11 a.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church in Sherwood, Oregon, with a reception immediately following.