Else Paulina Anneka Brown

Else (Elze) Paulina Anneke Brown (née Van Breugel) passed away peacefully on April 16, 2025, in Round Rock, Texas, surrounded by her three children, her sister Erika, and her brother-in-law, John Carter. In the weeks leading up to her passing, Else had the opportunity to share meaningful visits and time with her family. She is survived by her loving children: daughter Sjoukje Brown and her daughter Tenley; son Kurt Brown, his wife Sadie, and their children Carter and Anneke; son Alex Brown and his husband Dennis Petrone; her sister, Erika Carter and brother-in-law, John Carter; her sister-in-law, Barbara Brown; and numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her devoted husband, Kurt H. Brown, her parents, Theadorus Wilhelmus and Geesje (Klaver) Van Breugel, and her sister, Theadora Munz.

Else was a proud Dutch woman whose enduring sense of humor, strength of character, kindness, and unwavering love for her family touched everyone who knew her. She was the heart of her home, and was the fiercest defender and head cheerleader for the Brown family—always there with a kind word, a bright smile, and endless encouragement. "Oma" adored her children and grandchildren, and proudly shared stories about them and their accomplishments with anyone who would listen.

Else never met a stranger—she had a gift for making people feel welcome, seen, and valued. Her favorite pastimes included visiting with friends, winning at BINGO, enjoying a glass of chardonnay at Happy Hour, playing scratch-offs, crocheting, and spending cherished moments with loved ones. One of her greatest passions was spearheading the Women’s Auxiliary of the Barrington Area Hockey League (BAHL) from 1980-1995. Along with her husband, Kurt, they grew BAHL from 85 players to over 600, creating opportunities for children from all backgrounds and experience levels.

One of her favorite sayings was, “And as the finishing touch, God created the Dutch.” She would laugh every time she said it, embodying the humor, joy, and pride she carried with her throughout her entire life. She will be deeply missed, and forever remembered.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at the Alexandria Bay United Methodist Church, 2 Rock St. Alexandria Bay, NY at 11:00 am. Burial will follow at Barnes Settlement Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Else’s name online at www.cancer.org/hopelodgenycdonate, or to Hope Lodge NYC, Attn.: Lorraine Katt, 132 W. 32nd Street, NY, NY 10001.