Rev. Michael O. Brown

The Rev. Michael O Brown, a Catholic priest of the Toledo Diocese, died on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at Rosary Care Center, Sylvania, where he was in Hospice Care. 

Born on April 19, 1949, to William and Barbara, Fr. Brown celebrated his fiftieth anniversary of Ordination to the Priesthood in May of this year and was in retirement since 2014. Although in senior status, Fr. Brown generously continued to assist at various parishes as needed. 

Fr. Brown’s priestly ministry included a variety of assignments including sixteen years in the U.S. Navy Chaplain Corps. After ordination in 1974, Fr. Mike served as an Associate Pastor at Our Lady of Perpetual Help and Little Flower, both in Toledo. In 1979, he became chaplain and theology teacher at Calvert High School, Tiffin, until 1982, when he joined the Navy. 

In the U.S. Navy, Fr Brown served at various bases and at sea, including service as a chaplain for the U.S. Marines, and on loan to the British Royal Navy. He retired in 1998 as a Commander. 

Upon returning to the Toledo Diocese, Fr. Brown became pastor of Christ the King Parish, 1999-2008; and then pastor of St. Clement Parish 2008-2014. He also was adjunct faculty at St. Francis de Sales High School during those years. 

Fr. Brown was known for his keen intellect and academic success. After an undergraduate degree from John Carroll University, he obtained advanced degrees from St. Meinrad Seminary, St. Meinrad, Indiana (Divinity); Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana (Religious Studies); Notre Dame University, South Bend, Indiana (Worship and Liturgy); and Catholic University, Washington, D.C. (Religious Education). 

Fr. Brown was especially committed to genealogy, tracing his own family records back many centuries. In addition to his own family records, he relished helping friends track their own family records. 

Whenever he could, Fr. Brown loved to travel, having explored many parts of the world. His other interests included reading all kinds of books, especially in history. He participated in various veterans groups and services. 

Fr. Brown is survived by his sister, Mrs. Cindi Van Sickle, Brother in-law, Steve Van Sickle and two nephews, Ryan Carey and Sean Carey. He was preceded in death by his parents. 

The body of Fr. Brown will be received at Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Cathedral, 2535 Collingwood Blvd, at 4:00 p.m., Monday, November 4, where the body will lie in state. Vespers taking place at 7:00 p.m. On Tuesday, there will be visitation at the Cathedral, beginning at 9:00 a.m., until the Funeral Mass begins at 10:00 a.m. Burial with military honors will follow at Calvary Cemetery. 

A special word of appreciation is extended to all those kind persons at St. Anne’s Hospital, Rosary Care Center, and Ohio Living Home Health and Hospice, who helped in the care of Fr. Michael Brown. Thank you for your compassion and care. Urbanski Funeral Home a Life Celebration Home 5055 Secor Rd. Toledo, Ohio is assisting the family.