Earl Eugene "Gene" Brown

Earl Eugene “Gene” Brown, a devoted family man, respected leader, and proud Wichitan, passed away on February 16, 2025, at the age of 89. He lived a life filled with love, dedication, and an undeniable passion for the things he held dear-his family, his community, the outdoors, and of course, a well-tuned Corvette. Born and raised in Wichita, Gene graduated from East High School in 1954 and Wichita State University in 1960 with a degree in Business Administration. During college, he was actively involved in Delta Upsilon fraternity, Men of Webster, and Pershing Rifles. He earned an Army commission as a 2nd Lieutenant through WSU’s R.O.T.C. program and later served on active duty at Fort Lee, Virginia. He continued his military service in the Army Reserves, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1988. Gene married Marcene Lavon Sears on June 2, 1962, and together they built a life centered on love, laughter, and family. They raised two children, Traci (Nichols) and Brian Brown, who were the pride of his life.After returning from active duty, Gene began a long career with the City of Wichita, retiring in 1992 as the City Treasurer after 30 years of service. A dedicated advocate for Wichita and its sports community, he co-founded KOSMIK (Keep Our Sports Money in Kansas) to strengthen local college football programs and played a key role in the successful effort to save and renovate WSU’s Cessna Stadium. Gene’s love for adventure and the outdoors was evident in everything he did. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, a founding member of the Air Capital Corvette Club, and a licensed SCCA race driver for 15 years. His passion for motorcycles and cars, particularly Corvettes, was second only to the joy he found in spending time with family and friends. Gene will be remembered for his humor, dedication, passion for the things he loved, and the way he could make anyone feel like an old friend. Never one to call someone by their given name if he could help it, Gene had a knack for coming up with fun and memorable nicknames for his close family and friends-each one a reflection of his quick wit and the special bond he shared with them. His legacy will live on through those who had the privilege of knowing him. He was preceded in death by his father, Earl Brown; his mother, Marguerite (Smith) Brown; his brother, William "Bill" Brown; and his grandson, Corbin Brown. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Marcene (Sears) Brown; his children, Traci (Brown) Nichols and husband Larry Nichols, and Brian Brown and wife Patricia (McAnally) Brown; his grandchildren, Alecia (Brown) Mertz and husband Jaron Mertz, Logan Nichols, and Caleb Brown and wife Raegan (Bailey) Brown; and his great-grandchildren Kaden, Oaklee, and Laken Mertz. He also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory. A celebration of Gene’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Country Acres Baptist Church. In honor of his lifelong love for Wichita State and the Shockers, the family invites guests to wear their WSU Shocker gear as a tribute to Gene's spirited support. Gene may have crossed the finish line, but his spirit, humor, and love will keep racing on in all who knew him. Services in care of Downing & Lahey West Mortuary.