Ronald J. Brown of Phoenix, NY passed away on Friday, May 15, 2026 at Crouse Hospital.

Ron grew up and spent most of his life in Phoenix. He graduated from John C. Birdlebough High School with the class of 1960 and attended Canton Technical College. He enjoyed a long career with the John Deere Company and later served as a federal loan officer for the US Department of Agriculture before entering retirement.

Growing up on the Oswego River, Ron was an avid water skier and later became a dedicated runner, completing many marathons. Physical health and staying active were always priorities for him, even into his elder years. He enjoyed staying active with regular workouts and projects around the house and the many acres on which they lived. He was a member of and active volunteer for the First Congregational UCC in Phoenix. Above all, Ron was a dedicated spouse, dad and grandfather who enjoyed the simple pleasures in life like playing sports outside with his grandkids and lived in a selfless way that put the needs of his family first. He honored all people and treated everyone with dignity and respect.

Ron is predeceased by his parents, Kenneth and Helena Brown.

Ron married his wife Kathy (Allen) in 1966. Together, they built the house they called home for almost their entire married life. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children: Scott Brown (spouse: Justin) of Madison, WI, and Karen (Brown) Cole (spouse: Tom) of Cato, NY and four grandchildren: Ruth and Harper (Scott/Justin) and Jackson and Henry (Karen/Tom). He is also survived by his sister Candice (Brown) Hunt (spouse: George) of Ocala, FL, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026 from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm at the First Congregational Church, 43 Bridge St., Phoenix, NY 13135 and will be followed by a brief memorial service.

Ron’s family wishes to thank the doctors and nurses at Crouse Hospital for the exceptional care he received and for the compassion, empathy and grace they extended to his family during his hospital stay.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to First Congregational Church in Phoenix, NY.

Please sign the Maurer Funeral Home on-line guestbook for Ronald to express your condolences to his family.