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LAURA BROWN Obituary

Laura Ann Brown A seven-year resident of Gig Harbor, formerly of Orange County, CA, passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 10, 2011 at St. Joseph's Hospital in Tacoma. Laura was born in Los Angeles on Sept. 14, 1947. She is survived by her adoring family, husband Bill, son Jon Sprang, daughter Amy Mitchell, granddaughter Sarah, mother Katherine Bradford, and siblings John, Jim, and Susie Schlund. She was preceded in death by her father Dr. John Schlund. Prior to moving to WA from CA, she was a teacher, counselor, and administrator. Laura embraced life with a "let's do it" attitude. She and Bill loved cooking, traveling, and golf (in warm weather). With her dear friends she quilted, knitted, and "black belt" shopped. Laura was the current president of New Neighbors of Gig Harbor. The outpouring of love and concern is a testament to radiance of her personality and character. There will be a celebration of her life in the near future. The family is suggesting donations in her name to the Brain Aneurysm foundation.

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Published by News Tribune (Tacoma) from Feb. 15 to Feb. 16, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for LAURA BROWN

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Rozalyn Palicte (selway)

February 28, 2011

We have lost a loving person this year.. I am stunned and shocked.. She was a wonderful person.. My heart goes out to you Coach Brown and your family.. I love you

February 26, 2011

Dear Bill and Family,
Our world has lost a warm and loving person, my thoughts and prayers go out to you all in this time of shock and sadness.
Janet Wilcox.

Debby Huffman

February 25, 2011

First, I am stunned. I immediately miss her smile. We were cohorts in SAEA politics - maybe I had something to do with that. If there was a "wrong" happening to teachers, she & I were THERE - at Board meetings, marching with signs, but counselor issues were her focus. And, then we all retired in 2002!! Big surprise -- we were still "young!!" The first thing we did was organize lunches for all the retirees. There were about 20-25 all over our county, each month over 3 or more years, including ROP-kid-learning kitchens. Neither of us ever missed a lunch, the camaraderie of, "we've been there." Off to Seattle with Billy for what had to be the happiest time of her life, and dropped down to see me in Palm Springs often. I will miss my friend -- a true friend. In looking for one picture to include, I was longing for the yellow convertible Benz!! In all my pictures of the past 30 years I never found one without a SMILE. And,that's what I've lost and will remember, was the BRIGHTNESS and SINCEREITY that went with that smile. Billy.... look for it and be warmed by it with me. Besides sadness, my heart is filled with love. -Doc

Shelley Hernandez

February 23, 2011

Laura always was so sweet to me while I was working at Century High School. She always had a smile for me every day! My thoughts and prayers are with Bill and his family.

Mary Selway

February 22, 2011

I am so sorry to hear about Laura. She was a great gal. We worked together at Century High School.

Linda Hansen

February 22, 2011

I had the very great pleasure of growing up with Laura in Whittier, CA. I saw her at a Whittier High School reunion a few years ago and had the pleasure of meeting her dear Bill. Laura glowed at that reunion. Her life is to be celebrated and not mourned. Just look at how many people she touched in her lifetime. She will live in our hearts forever.

Debby Huffman

February 20, 2011

First, I am stunned. I immediately miss her smile. We were cohorts in SAEA politics - maybe I had something to do with that. If there was a "wrong" happening to teachers, she & I were THERE - at Board meetings, marching with signs, but counselor issues were her focus. And, then we all retired in 2002!! Big surprise -- we were still "young!!" The first thing we did was organize lunches for all the retirees. There were about 20-25 all over our county, each month over 3 or more years, including ROP-kid-learning kitchens. Neither of us ever missed a lunch, the camaraderie of, "we've been there." Off to Seattle with Billy for what had to be the happiest time of her life, and dropped down to see me in Palm Springs often. I will miss my friend -- a true friend. In looking for one picture to include, I was longing for the yellow convertible Benz!! In all my pictures of the past 30 years I never found one without a SMILE. And,that's what I've lost and will remember, was the BRIGHTNESS and SINCEREITY that went with that smile. Billy.... look for it and be warmed by it with me. Besides sadness, my heart is filled with love for my buddy. Doc

Debby Huffman

February 20, 2011

2/15 - First, I am stunned. I immediately miss her smile. We were cohorts in SAEA politics - maybe I had something to do with that. If there was a "wrong" happening to teachers, she & I were THERE - at Board meetings, marching with signs, but counselor issues were her focus. And,
then POOF!! we all retired in 2002!! Big surprise -- we were still "young!!" The first thing we did was organize lunches for all the retirees so we could hang on to one another. There were about 20-25 all over our county, each month over 3 or more years, including ROP-kid-learning kitchens. Previous retirees to "showw us the way." Neither of us ever missed a lunch, the camaraderie of, "we've been there." Off to Seattle with Billy she went, for what had to be the happiest time of her life, and dropped down to see me in Palm Springs often. I will miss my friend -- a true friend. In looking for one picture to include, I was longing for the yellow convertible Benz!! In all my pictures of the past 30 years I never found one of our Laura without a SMILE. And, that's what I've lost and will remember, the BRIGHTNESS and SINCEREITY that went with that smile. Billy.... look for it and be warmed by it with me. Besides sadness, my heart is filled with love for my buddy. Doc

Sandra Rubio

February 18, 2011

I was one of the many students she touched. Her first year at Carr Intermediate was my last. But I remember her fondly. She challenged us but patiently led us to come to our own conclusions academically. I later worked with her in the Santa Ana Educators' Association. I saw another equally powerful side to her. Yet whether in the classroom or in politics she was quietly determined to not be bulldozed over by what she saw as unfair or illogical. I was blessed to have her be my teacher twice in life. Blessings and prayers to her husband and children.

Marlene Hernandez

February 17, 2011

Laura was my boss at Sierra Intermediate many years ago. I was her secretary in the Chapter 1 Office. I was new at being a secretary to someone; she was very supportive and encouraged me to continue to advance. My thoughts and prayers are with you. May the memories of Laura forever live in your hearts.

Louise Sobieski

February 17, 2011

Life's treasured moments with Laura remain in our hearts and minds forever. Her smile was a shinning light and each gaze at the night sky will remind me of how intoxicatng her smile could make me feel! She will shine forever in the Heavens!
For all who crossed her path Excellance, Ellegance and Endearing care were her most wonderful qualities. Finding the paths that would lead to a successful outcome and a United Front was her never ending mission.
I recall many fond moments shared with Laura while on the Board of Directors at the Teacher Union. She had so much SPUNK, DETERMINATION and such a pleasant way of guiding you to her mode of thinking. What a tragedy and loss of such a beautiful lady. I have fond memories of our get togethers. And she loved her family so very very much! May the days ahead bring to mind all the fond memories that mean so much, because Laura was with us.

February 16, 2011

I haven't had the pleasure of knowing you. After reading the kind words from your loved ones I was inspired by the beautiful legacy of your time on Earth. You made a difference in people's lives, and it mattered to you. Thank you.

Laura, Bill, Jonathan and Family at Thanksgiving in Sonoma

Christopher Kaufman

February 16, 2011

Laura, for all intensive purposes, was the sister I never had. She and I talked on the phone several times a month for a period of time that stretches many years. I was at Bill and Laura's wedding in California. Her death has left a huge hole in my heart. I was due to fly to Seattle this coming Sunday after talking with her the Monday before the tragedy began. Words cannot express my feelings. I am still in a state of shock. She will always be a very important person in my life and one whose counsel I will always remember.

Chris Kaufman, her Cousin, Atlanta, GA

Jan Osborn

February 16, 2011

Laura was such a wonderful friend and colleague at Century High School. I could talk with Laura about school, family, life in general. I can't imagine that her smile can be diminished, even in death. She's smiling somewhere - I'm sure of it. My heart goes out to Bill. I know how she loved you. With fond memories.

Very large turnout for dinner

Debby Huffman

February 16, 2011

Overlooking Laguna's Main Beach with Jerry Ox

Debby Huffman

February 16, 2011

Dinner Plotting at Duke's with counselor Letty Vargas

Debby Huffman

February 16, 2011

Chinese Lunch with Arnie Winer and Jan Palmer

Debby Huffman

February 16, 2011

Lunch Group

Debby Huffman

February 16, 2011

Elegance

Debby Huffman

February 16, 2011

We're RETIRING!!

Debby Huffman

February 16, 2011

LYNN ROWE

February 16, 2011

dear fAMILY OF DEAREST LAURA,
MY HEART IS BOKEN BY THIS SAD NEWS. LAURA WAS THE DEAREST LADY MIN THE WOLD TO ME. WHEN WE SERVED AS COUNSELORS TOGETHER AT SADDLEBACK HIGH SCHOOL IT WAS AN EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TIME FOR ME AND MY FAMILY ECONOMICALLY AND HEALTH WISE. LAURA COMFORTED, SUPPORTED, AND LOVED ME THROUGH THOSE TOUGH TIMES. FROM THEN ON WE CRIED AND PERSEVERED THROUH SOME TOUGH WORK TIMES BUT IT WAS ALWAYS LIGHTENED UP BY HER HUMOR, LAUGHS, AND CARING WAYS.
I'LL REMEMBER OUR LUNCHES, TRIPS TO NORDSTROMS, BIRTHDAY PARTIES, WEDDING, AND THE MANY SPECIAL TIMES WE SHARED AND CARED IN ONE OF OUR OFFICES.
I'LL NEVER FORGET YOU AND WILL ALWAS MISS YOU.

OUR STRONGEST WISHES FOR HEALING FOR BILL AND ALL THE FAMILY.

LYNN ROWE AND DAVE AND KATHY

Scott Orloff

February 16, 2011

Laura was a very good friend of my wife and I and she will be surely missed. My thoughts and prayers are with their family and I wish my good friend Bill Brown the best as he gets through this tough time.

Scott Orloff

Myrna Raney

February 16, 2011

Bill, I have read the wonderful compliments of Laura in the Guest Book. What precious memories you have of the beautiful woman in your life. May God bless you and keep you and your family in the days ahead.
1958 Sullivan, IN High School Classmate

February 16, 2011

Our deepest sympathies to Bill, a dear friend for more than 50 years.

Laura's caring ways for us as annual house guest from the Midwest will always be remembered along with her unique laugh.

With love and prayers, Dick and Sharon

February 16, 2011

Our deepest condolences.
Bob and Christine

Peter Cazares

February 16, 2011

Mrs. Brown was my high school counselor. Anytime I had a problem I would go to her and she would find a way to help me. I had said something to a teacher once and was sent to the principals office. I knew I was going to be suspended for a few days, and who helped me? Mrs. Brown. She talked to me for almost an hour, and after we finished talking I was in school the next day. Mrs. Brown never used the old speech "If you don't do as I say, or If you want to keep playing football you better..." she was real. How else could she reach a young immature teen that thougt he was smarter than anyone else, and could talk his way out of anything. In teaching as in any profession you either have it or you don't! There is no in between, and Mrs. Brown had it. I am proud and honored to have had her as a positive role model in my life. Coach Brown plese accept my condolences. I pray that you can find peace in your heart Coach Brown. We all loved and admired your wife Coach. Laura was a wonderful lady.

John Westmyer

February 15, 2011

When I was a student Laura was always there for me to help with any crisis that arose. You were a great inspiration and confidant. Thank you for everything you did for me and all of the students at Century. You will be missed.

Juan Tapia

February 15, 2011

Laura Brown was a very nice soft spoken lady. I knew her thru my school years at century. She will be truly missed. Our cincere condolences to the brown family. Stay strong coach brown. Tapia Family

Juan Tapia

February 15, 2011

Laura was a very sweet, soft spoken lady. She was very helpful with students and very kind. She will be greatly missed. May god guide you and strenghtened you coach brown. Stay strong. Tapia Family

February 15, 2011

Laura was an amazing woman and friend. She was a very special person in my life. She was the only person that called me Theodore. As a young coach she came to me after a game and told me I was going to be a fine coach because I talked to my players, not yell at them. She always had a way of making me feel good about myself.

She knew I was going to take a wife before I did… something about buying a cat and nesting. There was a time that Bill and Laura had me over for dinner every week before I found Paula. Sometimes we would have very heated conversations about school politics. I would get so mad at her point of view sometimes, but she would just smile at me and tell me it was ok, she loved me anyway. She loved unconditionally.

I pray that my friend Bill can find peace. I grieve with Bill and hundreds of others that realize what an amazing person we have lost and what a beautiful angel heaven has gained.

Ted Crego, Santa Ana, Ca.

D Cox

February 15, 2011

To the Family of Laura Brown

Sorry to hear of your loss. Death is really an enemy. Our Heavenly Father promise that he will swallow up death forever. (Isaiah 25:8) What a wonderful time that will be. I pray that reflecting on this hope and the many wonderful memories that she has left behind will bring you peace and comfort

shannon schwendeman

February 15, 2011

I send thoughts and prayers to Laura's family. I only met her once, and that was enough to show me how kind a spirit she had. Shannon Gig Harbor, WA.

February 15, 2011

I felt so honored to have known and loved Laura. She had a way of calming everyone yet bringing joy into our lives. The best friend a person could have. Bill and Laura always welcomed everyone into their home with open arms and the love they shared was indescribable... it radiated. Gig Harbor will miss this special lady. A huge loss. Heaven is lucky to have this wonderful an angel. Laury Curry

February 15, 2011

Laura was a wonderful person who was very dedicated to our high school, Century High. She was a joy to be around with boundless energy. My thoughts go to her family and Bill, who was a beautiful light that shined in Laura's heart and mind.

Greg Katz
Century High School

Teresa Rymer

February 15, 2011

I only met Laura a couple of times through Gerry Oxx, but what I remember about her was her zest for life. She always seemed joyful and wanted to live life to the fullest. Look out heaven...! Teresa (Orange Co, CA)

Sandra Mihu

February 15, 2011

My condolences to Bill and Family. Laura was a fun person to be around and my time with her at Century, although sometimes "rocky" did not make me respect or appreciate her any less. My prayers are with you all.
smihu and the Century Instrumental Music Family.

Janice/Robert Hopper

February 15, 2011

In addition to tragic, the announcement is shocking. She is remembered as one of the most vibrant ladies we have known; it is with sadness that we receive this news. Our hearts are with Bill who, as Laura, is a special long-time friend.

Paula

February 15, 2011

The thing that has always stuck with me about Laura is the way she looked at Bill. Be it across the room or across the table...it shone in her eyes. The first time I met them, and saw them together, I remember thinking...I want to be loved like that. Thankfully I am...and she made sure that I was the right person for her Teddy. In that beautifully mannered, soft-voiced, gentle way of hers she made it known that Ted was special and she was protective. And then she offered me tea. A true lady, a good friend and a beautiful woman. What a blessing she was and will always be.

Johnny Lueras

February 15, 2011

She was sweet lady to work with loving person with beautful smile she will be miss alot rest in peace God Bless

Maria Kennedy

February 15, 2011

I was so sorry to hear about Laura's death. It seems like only yesterday when she was here at Century working with us all and sharing the good times we had at the many social events we attended. My sincere condolences to your family. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Maria Kennedy

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