Karen Ruth Brown (nee Johnson), of Ann Arbor, Michigan, passed away on Tuesday, November 22, 2022, at her longtime home in Ann Arbor. Karen was born October 19, 1946 to Elmer A. Johnson and Agnes V. (nee Drayton) Johnson. On December 30, 1967, she married Lawrence S. Brown.
She is survived by him, as well as by her three children, Daniel L. Brown of Ann Arbor, Kristin E. Marentette of Edina, MN, and David L. Brown, of Castle Pines, CO. She is also survived by her seven grandchildren: Benjamin Brown, Owen Brown, Charles “Quinn” Marentette V, Lauren Marentette, Allison Brown, Peter Brown, and Jonathan Brown, as well as by her brother, Loren Johnson.
Karen was the Administrative Director for the Institute of Continuing Legal Education for the University of Michigan. After Karen retired, she enjoyed attending her grandkids’ activities, playing her grand piano, and keeping Huron River Drive trash free during and after her daily jogs. She was a member of the First Church of Christ, Scientist, Ann Arbor. She earned her B.A. and MSW from the University of Michigan, and was an avid U of M football and basketball fan.
Per her wishes, Karen will be cremated. The family plans to have a celebration of her life, to be scheduled. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her honor can be made to the Huron River Watershed Council. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.
