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William Brown Obituary
2006, surrounded by his children. He is survived by his two sons, daughter, and five grandchildren. Bill was born in Battle Creek in 1925 and raised in Columbus. He attended New Mexico Military Institute for high school and college, where he was known as "WP", and went to Japan with the Army during World War II. Upon his return, he took his MBA at Wharton then began a career in real estate development among the first recruits at Coldwell Banker's then-new Phoenix office. Over the years, Bill served on the Phoenix Planning Commission, held many offices for the Downtown YMCA and Midtown Rotary, and was active in the Phoenix Ski Club and NMMI and UPenn alumni groups. He supported many people and organizations with his time, energy, leadership, and resources. Bill may best be known as the owner of the Organ Stop Pizza restaurants. An accomplished pianist and theater organist in his own right, he loved music and was happiest when sharing it with others. With his restaurants, he entertained vast numbers of people, brought the theater organ and its music into the vernacular, launched the careers of many artists, and inspired and helped others to create similar restaurants across the country. He was a leader and active participant in all the major theater organ organizations, receiving honors and accolades from many. He also supported the installation of dozens of organs here in the valley and across the country, including Phoenix' Orpheum Theater. His contribution to the theater organ community is difficult to over estimate. Bill was also a father: father to his children, and adopted father to many younger men and women who came to know, respect, and love him. Despite an ubiquitous to-do list, he was always present for and involved with those he cared for, sharing his love of music, the fun of water and snow skiing, the skills of a craftsman, his enthusiasm for life, his good sense, good humor, and good heart. Active to the last, Bill traveled the country and world visiting friends and interesting places, continued to cross things of his to-do list, and even went jet skiing a month before his illness. Yet, he has sorely missed his wife, Barbara, who passed some years before him; may they be reunited. You have loved and taught us well, dearest father; with deepest respect and boundless love, you will be missed and remembered. Memorial Services will be at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, 100 West Roosevelt Street, on Friday 10 February at 11 a.m. A viewing will be held at the church an hour before the service. Bill requested that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to either the Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix, AZ 85014, or the Boys & Girls Club of Metropolitan Phoenix, 2645 N. 24th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85008.
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Memories and Condolences
for William Brown
Sponsored by The Valley of the Sun Chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society.
James Kawa
January 30, 2022
It was a great time to work for Bill on the organ crew. He is missed.
Dale Caplin
June 21, 2008
No matter what I asked you to do, if it was right, you did it. May you rest in peace earning your rewards. Dale E. Caplin, VOTS,
Don Story
June 1, 2006
I first met Bill when I joined the organ repair crew at the Orpheum (then Paramount) in Phoenix as a clueless Sophmore in college. My naivette and probable lack of social graces meant nothing to Bill. What mattered was I was a fellow organ nut. He immediately made me feel welcomed to the group and made me feel like one of his family as well. I was welcome to come out to his old house and play the first Wurlitzer whether he was there or not. To a college kid with no access to such a incredible organ otherwise this was like a gift from God. God bless you Bill! You'll never know what that meant to me. Your encouragement and friendship over the years is something I treasured and I never would have achieved musically what I did without it. The organ world in general will miss you greatly and the theatre organ group in Phoenix has suffered a irreplaceable loss. Rest well. You have certainly earned it.
Earl and Harriet Hagey
February 21, 2006
His warmth and friendliness was always
appreciated. We were privileged to
have known him.
Ed and Patti Zollman
February 20, 2006
A gentleman who played an important role in so many lives has left us, but the memories of many good times, his incredible generosity, his wonderful humor, & his warmth & kindness will be ours forever, and for those memories we are forever grateful.
William P. (Bill) Brown
February 20, 2006
One of Many Memories
Spencer Peoples
February 14, 2006
Mr. Brown was a very special friend and the most influential figure in my growing up. While I can think of a million memories and special occasions that we shared together, no meeting or function can replace the role that he played in my attending NMMI. I can never thank him enough and, for this, he will always hold a special place in my heart. As I continue my education at UPenn, I will always carry with me the many words of wisdom and incredible stories told by WP. And of course, how could I ever forget the many, many times of hearing him play his wonderful organ (and many others!!) to the tune of the Fight Song and, of course, the Old Post. Here's to you old friend, may you rest in peace and be reunited with your love. Thank you for your kindness, generosity and the sharing of life's most important lessons. I will never forget.
Alison Skogen
February 14, 2006
Dear Mr. Brown,
My fondest memory of you shall always be you trotting after "our" band, taking pictures, in your RED sweater at the St. Patrick's Day Parade in 2003. What pride and exhilaration we all shared that day. The whole New York experience was unbelievable, and Radio City Music Hall, when you played "our" fight song on their organ was incredible. "Thanks for the memories", but most of all thanks for the music.
Dr.& Mrs. Larry Skogen
NMMI
Madeline LiVolsi
February 13, 2006
Bill, and his wife Barbara, were always very friendly, kind and generous towards my mother and me. A serendipitous evening at the Phoenix Organ Stop restaurant in Janurary, 1974, brought to my life a wonderful world of music and friends for which I will always be grateful. I will miss you, "Wm. P.".
Carl Reynolds
February 11, 2006
Dear Uncle Bill,
AS the director's of the Phoenix Chapter of he the NMMI Alumni Association came to know you, we rapidly realized of how special you were. Therefore each of us adopted you as our "Uncle Bill"
Without you, we would not have been able to accomplish the many things we have. You were plainly a leader and mentor to each of us.
We were not only lucky to be able to know you, but even more so in the fact we were able to call you our friend.
You will always be remembered with love, affection, and deep respect by each one of us.
With love,
The Phoenix Chapter of New Mexico Military Institute".
james kawa
February 10, 2006
A good boss,A good friend.
Richard Lundgreen
February 10, 2006
Bill Brown was a very nice man that I worked for at Organ Stop Pizza many years ago on 7th Street. He was a great host and we went water skiing a couple times at Lake Pleasant with his beautiful wife Barbara. He was a good business man and a good friend back then. It is sad to see such good people go, but it is the way.
I miss those days now as I look back.
Mike Spector
February 10, 2006
From Bill's friends at the Penn and Wharton Club of Arizona. All good thoughts!!!
Lori Corn
February 10, 2006
Bill, You were a wonderful man with a huge zest for life. You will be sadly missed by many. Sal, Lewis and Eric, our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Amy Misik
February 9, 2006
I'm sad to hear of Bill's passing but am glad his pain is now gone. I have wonderful memories of the many occasions I was welcomed into their home like one of the family. I will treasure forever being able to share in the evening of the Orpheum's grand opening. Bill's legacy of kindness, love and laughter continues through the lives of his children.
John Martin
February 9, 2006
Always generous, always kind, Bill really was a great guy and I am better for knowing him.
Mel Fields
February 9, 2006
I met Bill through snow skiing and water skiing over 40 years ago when we were all single and fancy free. We enjoyed many good times together and we will miss him very much. He was a kind and caring person and a good friend to all. So sorry that we cannot attend the service on Friday.
Mel and Ellie
Mike Donovan
February 8, 2006
Bill was a great friend and mentor to me while I was bandmaster at New Mexico Military Institute. I will always treasure our times together, and I will miss him deeply. Bill was one of the warmest, kindest people I have ever met. He was very loyal. I will never forget Bill. One of his legacies is the band hall at New Mexico Military Institute, the "WP Brown Music Center".
Robert W. & G. Kay Inman
February 8, 2006
The music world has lost one of it's greatest members and we are profoundly sad. The many hours enjoying friendship and music at the Brown home will always be remembered fondly. How many times we unfolded, set up and took down the seating for the many concerts. Bill was right by our side, just one of the guys. Two of my grandsons will always remember the tour of the Orpheum organ chambers led by Bill. May you rest peacefully and guide the musical world above us. 'Til we meet again.
Candice Wise
February 8, 2006
My Dear Uncle Bill,
I shall miss you so much:
-the phone calls and chats
-the many laughs
-dinners with the family
-reminisces of so many happy times
-your hugs
-your always positive outlook on whatever roadblocks were set in my way
-your generosity toward my brother
I shall always remember you and the kindnesses you and Aunt Barb extended to my family. You told me I was losing my "Unca" Bill, but you were wrong......You will always live in my heart and someday we will hug again.
Candi
John Van Houten
February 8, 2006
Bill was a wonderful friend,always willing to help others especially those less fortunate.He was a giver and fun to be with.He will be missed but not forgotten.
Tammy Somo
February 8, 2006
Bill Brown was like a father to my family and I. Bill was definitely a pillar in many communities. Some of the fondest memories of my life were spent at his house with his family. His generosity, compassion and zest for life touched many lives. Bill made his mark while on this earth and the world is a better place because of him.
Don & Phyl Ogden
February 8, 2006
Sallie, Lewis and Eric
Our thoughts are with you and we are sorry that we cannot attend the
celebration of Bill's life. Your mom and dad were good friends and will be remembered for their generosity of life and fun. We miss
them but are grateful that they are
in a better place without pain. We
shall miss those quick stops Bill
made on his way to his beloved NMMI.
Thanks for letting us know about his
passing. Don and Phyl
W. P. Brown, NMMI Alumnus
Steve Thorp
February 8, 2006
W. P. Brown’s legacy at New Mexico Military Institute is evident each time that air passes through the pipes of Pearson Auditorium’s Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ. He will always be fondly remembered sitting at the helm of the grand instrument for which he was so integrally involved with rebuilding and maintaining. Our cadets will be forever indebted to him for his support of N.M.M.I.’s Music Department, and I have been blessed to have known such a kind and giving man.
Jerry and Marty Childress
February 8, 2006
WP(Bill Brown) was one of the first alums we got to know at NMMI. We attended an organ concert at Pearson with the Toles and WP the first week we were in Roswell and at NMMI..He stood up at the end of the concert and gave out a big Bravo!! Boy! were we impressed with his spirit! We were fortunated to become friends with WP and Barbara over the years, We shared many good times with them..including a wonderful Thanksgiving in their home. We thought that when we put him on the plane back to Arizona in October that he would be well in no time. We will miss him as we have missed Barbara but are so very thankful that we were among the lucky ones who got to know them.We hold Lewis, Eric and Sallie close in our hearts and prayers during this time and the days ahead.Marty and Jerry Childress
Kevin and Laura Cliff
February 8, 2006
My husband and I worked for Mr.Brown at O.S.P. in the 80's, and are deeply saddened to learn of his passing. He was wonderful to both of us.Being at Organ Stop, was the best,Thank-You Mr.Brown for providing a unique,happy world for us. We always think of you and your family with much affection. Kevin and Laura Cliff
Lyn Larsen
February 8, 2006
Bill was one of the most remarkable men that I have ever known. His interests were far-reaching and diverse, his talents were many and most accomplished, his love of music was such that a beautiful melody could make a tear fall from his eye, and his sense of humor was raucous and legendary. This was also a man who held his friends close to his heart, and loved them without judgement or bias. He was a friend, a mentor, an advisor, a teacher, a partner, and a big-brother. I send him to his new experience with much love, and a hearty "Bravo!"
KENNETH IVERSEN
February 7, 2006
As a young boy I had the pleasure of hearing the wonderful PARADISE THEATRE ORGAN in its original home.
Later in life I had the pleasure of wonderful entertainment at the ORGAN STOP PIZZA locations only because of this kind and tallented man.
Bill will be missed but never forgotten.
Steven Wysack
February 7, 2006
Bill is the greatest man I have ever met. He has a kindness and love for everyone, no matter who they were. His generosity and drive never ceased, even to the end. He always put others needs before his own. Bill will be sorely missed by so many people and his impact on society will be felt for generations to come.
char hopwood
February 7, 2006
I salute a legendary figure in the world of theatre organ and a person who left this world a better place for his share of it. He was an honorable inspiration to all with whom he came into contact. May God Rest His Soul.
Chad Willems
February 7, 2006
I had the pleasure of getting to know Bill while working in Arizona politics. Most of my conversations with him consisted of me asking him for political donations and him giving me a hard time about it (in a joking way). He was a pleasure to be around and will be missed by all who knew him.
Hal Sanguinetti
February 7, 2006
There are some people in this world that are truly givers, and Bill Brown was one of them. Although I knew him only through the Theatre Organ world, it's obvious in reading this guest book and his obituary that Bill really touched the lives of many people in many walks of life. I visited his beautiful home only once, during a Theatre Organ Regional event in Phoenix about 15 years ago, and was amazed at not only the quality of his home installation but of the generousity he displayed towards all of the guests who filled his house to hear Walt Stroney play... and the sound of the organ was so amazing, especially for a home installation... it blew me away. I have one picture of me sitting on a Theatre Organ console, and it was taken that day at Bill's house... a fond reminder of a wonderful day and a wonderful man. Bill will not be forgotten; not by me, not by many. Rest in peace.
Hal Sanguinetti
"Gee Dad! It's a Wurlitzer!" KPCC
Gail Ward
February 7, 2006
Bill's energy and warm friendship will always be remembered with affection and respect. Many theatre organ followers are thankful for his vision and generous support for music and musicians.
Rest peacefully.
Douglas J. Kroger
February 6, 2006
I always looked forward to seeing Bill and visiting with him at the many ATOS conventions I've attended. When I learned of his death on Monday, I was very saddened to realize that such meetings on this plane of our existence will never take place again. He was such an extremely rare gentlemanly, genuine, unaffected guy with a caring smile and treated me as well as many others as though they were a close relative. May he rest in peace and his family be comforted.
David Lindsay
February 6, 2006
Over thirty years of wonderful memories of a generous and kind man. Bill was that rare combination of a very successful business man with a powerful code of ethics. It was an honor to know him.
Greg Bailey
February 6, 2006
Thirty-five years ago I attended a concert at the Brown residence; it was also my introduction to Bill, his wonderful wife Barbara, and the three little ones. Our friendship grew as the years flashed by and I am happy to include the memories of opening 7th Street, Mesa, and Tucson as part of my life. Here was a person full of life, love for his family, caring for others, and for the community of those around him. I am saddened to witness this portion of my life pass, my thoughts are with the children at this time-
Michael Kinerk
February 6, 2006
One of the most important men in the history of the theatre organ now has passed from the scene. He was more generous and kind than anyone I knew and he cannot be replaced.
RALPH A WATKINS JR
February 6, 2006
When we had lunch with Barbara and WP as guest of Betty VanDenburg in celberating John P Vandenburg's life we made a point to make sure that we visit in the near future. We only were able to make this happen once before Barbara went to be with her heavenly father.
The next time was at New Mexico Military Institue on the celebration of The Greatest Generation. Pat WP and I got acquainted with the Cadet he sponsored. when they honored myself and 24 Allumni who attended this historic advent. Guess Who played the Organ?
Bill was a gentleman through and through and I was proud to be his friend.
Ralph A Watkins Jr
Flagstaff, Arizona
Janice Fysz
February 6, 2006
Thank you, Bill for bringing The Organ Stop Concept to Arizona. Your friendly smile and greetings when you visited OSP will be sadly missed.
Andy Antonczyk
February 6, 2006
Thank you Bill for the rich contribution to theatre organ history you gave to all of us.
Mike Foley
February 6, 2006
Dear Bill:
I will never forget when Tom Felice and I arrived in Phoenix in February of 1969. You welcomed us like guests of honor and we saw what was the most beautiful home WurliTzer installation ever. You were so proud and we were so blown away. The moment changed my life and made me ever so aware of your generous nature to all you met; even a couple of kids crossing the country. Thank you for all you've done for the world of Theatre organ.
Mike Foley
Walt Strony
February 6, 2006
We are all fortunate if we encounter just one person in our lifetime like Bill Brown. Most people don't. I count myself among the lucky few.
Bill was my friend, a father figure, strong supporter, and former "boss." He backed two of my earliest LPs, and had a major part in getting my career started. I will always be indebted to him.
His contributions to the organ world were enormous. No one ever worked so hard to rebuild, showcase, promote, and support theatre organ like him.
My time (10 years!) as featured organist at Organ Stop Pizza was a major part of my life. Besides all the musical and personal growth it inspired, it opened up many wonderful doors, and introduced me to SO many wonderful people. Thanks, Bill for being an important part of my life!
Linda Van Der Molen
February 6, 2006
I have only been part of the theatre pipe organ world for 8 years, and I had the pleasure of enjoying Bill's company on many occasions. From my perspective, Bill was a warm and tender gentleman, with a great sense-of-humor, and a wealth of knowledge. I pray for everyone who Bill touched, that you will not only remember Bill fondly, but take a part of Bill's kindnesses and share them with each other.
I pray that his family will be comforted by each other and the knowledge that there is a God who loved Bill so much that He knew it was time to come home.
Chip Wilder
February 6, 2006
I will always remember Mr. Brown. He and his family were neighbors of mine on Central Ave. as I was growing up. He had a great zest for life, and shared that with all whom he came in contact. He invited me to go water skiing with he and his family many times, indeed he invited my sisters and brothers as well. He was an excellent skier, able to jump the entire wake behind his beautiful Chris-Craft with ease. I was happily surprised the first time he allowed me to actually pilot his boat. That was quite a thrill for a fourteen year old lad. I have always admired and respected Mr. Brown, and pray that his family is comforted in knowing what love he had for them.
Richard Sklenar
February 6, 2006
The Board, staff, volunteers and members of Theatre Historical Society extend our condolences to Bill's family and legion of friends. His long-time love of theatre organ extended to historic theatres as well. We will miss Bill's smile, warmth, knowledge and friendship at our Conclaves.
Richard Sklenar, Executive Director, Theatre Historical Society.
CPT Kenneth Tuttle
February 6, 2006
Every time W.P. "Bill" Brown came to the W. P. Brown Music Center here on the "Old Post of New Mexico Military Institute, he always had a smile and a positive attitude. His wonderful organ still resides in Pearson Auditorium and is a remarkable testament to his legacy.
We will never be able to repay "Bill" for his many kindnesses, but we must never forget. CPT Ken Tuttle, Bandmaster, N.M.M.I.
Dennis Fertitta
February 6, 2006
Thanks, Bill, for helping some of the great artists "get their wings". I listen to many of your former employees. It is MY sincerest wish that your family honor you and your life's work by keeping your great establishment going so that, some one of these days, I will make it to Arizona and hear the magnificent instruument that EVERYONE talk's about at every concert I have attended for the last 20 years. There is a special place in organ heaven for guys like you, George, Jesse, Gaylord, Chris Rosevear,and many others. Please guide us all here left to encourage uneducated persons that the theatre organ is still alive and well and deservews to be played, and played, and played for many years to come.
Dave Stephens
February 5, 2006
Thanks Bill for sponsoring so many Theatre organ Pros for all of us to enjoy today.
Jeni Jordan O'Callaghan
February 5, 2006
Bill was an integral part of my growing up. I remember him as a great water and snow skier. He kept his beautiful CrisCraft in perfect condition. He always enjoyed the fun of being with friends and family outdoors on a mountain or at the lake. He and Barbara were part of my parents fun friends. With their kids, we all made Kids Camp--where we had our own fun and thought the adults never knew what we did. My parents, Bill and Barbara and the others, they knew.
Eamonn O'Callaghan
February 5, 2006
Mr. Brown, I just wanted to say thank you for helping me in college. I enjoyed your company at the Organ Stop when I first met you. You will be missed by many people, including me,
Eamonn O'Callaghan
Mark Herman
February 5, 2006
Thank you for all you have done for me and everyone else in the theatre organ world! Your friendship, hospitality, kindness, and zest for life will never be forgotten!
Richard Mogridge
February 5, 2006
God speed, Bill. May the Lord on High welcome you with open arms. May the Mighty WurliTzer Theatre Pipe Organ in Heaven ring out with its glorious voice as you skillfully carress her keys.
You will never be forgotten here below, Sir. With much love and admiration,
Richard and Kimmy Mogridge,
Walnut Hill Productions
Donald Walker
February 5, 2006
Because of Bill's generosity to the world of theatre organ, I've enjoyed over 20 years of great music. Thank you, Bill! You will indeed be missed, but your memory will live on.
Tom Yannitell
February 5, 2006
Bill will be remembered for giving the "Theatre Organ World" - music, music, Music! Bless you Bill.
Tom
bill coleman
February 5, 2006
Many memories of both Bill and Barabra water skiing, snow skiing and entertaining in their home with Bill playing the organ as the highlight of the evening.
Robert Ridgeway
February 5, 2006
Thank you, Bill, for your unfailing kindness and generosity to me over the 40 years I have known you. Yours was truly a life well lived and you set a high standard to which we all may aspire.
Jack Moelmann
February 5, 2006
Bill will be greatly missed. He was a great supporter of the theatre organ and the American Theatre Organ Society (ATOS) and its programs.
The members of ATOS thank you for everything that you did.
Scott May
February 5, 2006
Thank You for your dedication to the King of Instruments, and for being a kind and generous man.
Joseph DuciBella
February 5, 2006
Thank you for all you have done for the thousands over the years. And for your unfailing faith in the world of theatre organ, and related issues.
Barry & Joan Goodkin
February 5, 2006
We have know Bill with great fondness from the Theatre Historical Society.
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