Harold “Hal” Kenneth Brown

With profound sadness but cherished memories, we announce the passing of Harold “Hal” Brown. He departed from this world on March 21, 2024, in Gilbert, Arizona, surrounded by his loved ones. Hal was born on June 1, 1943, in Wyandotte, Michigan, and moved to Phoenix, Arizona, in 1946.

Hal’s journey through life was marked by love, laughter, and an unwavering zest for living. He embarked on his educational voyage, graduating from Central High School in Phoenix, Arizona,
in 1961, before earning his Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from Arizona State University in 1967. It was there that he laid the foundation for his remarkable career.

His first foray into the professional world was as an IRS agent, where he began to demonstrate his sharp mind and affable nature. Eventually, he ventured out to establish his own CPA practice,
which would flourish for over four decades. Hal’s clients weren’t just clients—they were friends and companions on his journey through life. He found immense joy in his work, and even until his last days, he remained actively engaged in the practice he built from the ground up.

Beyond the confines of his office, Hal’s heartbeat for two passions: cars and fine dining. He had an undeniable affinity for American automobiles from the 1940s, 50s, and 60s, with a particular fondness for his cherished first brand-new car, his 1969 Dodge Charger, the symbol of an era he adored. And when it came to culinary adventures, his love for fine dining was equaled only by his admiration for the iconic Marilyn Monroe.

While Hal might not have been a traditional “gardener,” his pride and joy lay in his meticulously crafted yard—a haven for family gatherings, laughter, and countless cherished memories. From the sparkling pool and crackling fire pit to his outdoor pavilion, complete with a billiard table, every corner of his outdoor sanctuary bore the imprint of his warmth and hospitality.

But beyond his professional achievements and hobbies, Hal’s greatest legacy lies in the hearts of those who knew him best. With a smile that could light up a room and a laugh that was
infectious to all, he endeared himself to everyone he encountered. His calm demeanor, genuine interest in others, and quick wit made him a friend to all and a pillar of strength for his family.

Hal leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter, survived by his adoring wife, Daryl Brown, five children – Steven Brown (Jil), Christyne Lynn (Mark), Lisa Beebe (Conrad), Erik Rud (Shelly),
Theresa Dootson (Jon) and cherished grandchildren Chanel Dootson (Jud), Cierra Dootson (Santiago), Sydney Brown, Nathan Brown, Melanie Harville, Emilie Lynn, Connor Lynn, Hayden
Beebe, Lisa Ann Norman, Jacob Rud, Ethan Rud, and Gavin Rud, each a testament to the depth of his love and devotion. He is also survived by his sister Claudia Long, niece Annie Bien
(Andy), nephew Paul Staczko, great-niece Ashley Pizzo (Sam), and brother Raymond Brown.

Hal was preceded in death by his parents, Francis Brown, and Grace Kaster, brother Earl Brown, and grandson Zachary Linn.

Although he is gone from our sight, Hal’s spirit will continue to live on in the hearts and memories of all who were fortunate enough to know him. Hal will be missed dearly.