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BORN
1942
DIED
2008
Erdman Brown Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Erdman Brown
John Lunsford
October 16, 2023
Good morning, Tom.
I am sure you know how much we all miss you, my friend. Those were great motorcycle riding years with you on the Valkyrie and everyone else on their Wing. A few of us who are left of the group were just speaking of you and what a good rider you were. Take care and give a hug to all the guys who followed in your footsteps.
JOHN LUNSFORD
October 18, 2020
Tom. You are still thought of as a very dear friend by me and Diane. We miss your kind heart and I certainly miss our motorcycle trips. Rest in Peace, my friend. You stand out in our group photo. Those who have joined you in eternity in this photo: Dave "Fletch" Fletcher, CT Hamlin, Alton "Butch" Giggy and Rick Wilson.
Tracy Tannen
October 17, 2020
Give our love to Roger and Fletch.
November 21, 2010
November 21, 2010
Cruising the Hawaiian Islands for our 40th anniversary.
November 19, 2010
My dearest Tom, you didn't have the best memory when it came to remembering birthday's or anniversary's. We'd been married about five years and your grandmother reminded you it was my birthday; that was when you built my extra cabinets I needed in the kitchen. It was a great present. Or how about the anniversary you forgot and you and Denny rode to San Diego to pick up your your motorcycle that Don had painted the "Flying Dutchman" on. You really did get better about remembeing. I didn't want presents, just to be with you was enough but you usually brought me flowers. You totally surprised me on our 35th anniversary when you presented me with a song you had our friend Randy write about our life together. When we made it to our 45th we changed the year in the song.
"FORTY-FIVE YEARS TOGETHER"
Tom Brown married Alice back in 1963,
Came to live together to raise a family.
Forty-five years later after 45 Christmas trees, They're side by side together and and as happy as they can be. After forty-five years of taxes and forty-five years of fun, After forty-five years of ups and downs raised a daughter and a son. Tom is always on the level, hits the nail right on the head. Alice made the house into a home and to Tom she dearly wed. They love to ride their motorcycle underneath the big blue sky. Love to ride up to the mountains, love to cruise the Oceanside. Through all kinds of weather, adventure will be there,
As they spend their lives together, this life they truly share. They're proud of their children and their lives they made worthwhile. They love to see their grandkids, you can see it in their smile. We give congratulatons; we mean every word that's said. God bless your souls together on the road that's still ahead.
I will always love you Tom. In my eyes you will always be "The Man, The Myth and the Legend".
And to quote you...
"Glad you got to see me!"
All my love, Alice
November 19, 2010
Dad's was a life marked by woodwork creations, a loving family, and friends with whom he loved to ride. He was strong in stature and in heart. A humble man who was generous and caring, yet he knew when and where to draw the line in the sand. He learned from his mistakes and made the most of his life. His creativity was hindered only by his customer's checkbook, as he put it! How do we continue on with such a void? By the grace of God, one day and tear at a time. Dad, you are greatly missed daily, and I can't wait to see you again in heaven! I love you more than you or I ever knew.
Love, Lisa
"The Man, The Myth, The Legend"
November 19, 2010
At Ensenada
November 19, 2010
Carly & Papa
November 19, 2010
At Death Valley
November 19, 2010
November 19, 2010
Bakersfield Street Riders
November 19, 2010
Austin & Papa on Colorado trip.
November 19, 2010
In Virginia City
November 19, 2010
November 19, 2010
November 19, 2010
Tracy Tannen
November 19, 2010
You were right, Tom. My Suzuki Burgman did sound like a sewing machine!
I remember the first time I saw your silver balls hanging on the back of your Valkyrie! Really, I couldn't believe it! You were such a kick.
I miss riding behind you. It seemed like on almost every BSR ride, I was riding behind you. Usually on a different motorcycle everytime!
God only knows what I'll be riding when I make it to heaven. Look forward to riding behind you there, too!
Miss you. Everyone misses you.
Tracy
John Lunsford
November 18, 2010
Tom had his way about either doing something or saying something. That's what I will always enjoy about the memories I share with other friends about Tom. His name is constantly being brought up around his old gang. I sure miss him during our rides and it will never be the same without him. Memories will last forever.
John Lunsford
Larry & Monica Lindsey
November 16, 2010
From the 1st time I met Tom to the last time I saw him, his presents always brought a large smile to my face. His visits to our shop when Tom was just riding around where pleasant and filled with laughter. I guess Larry and I are blessed with having something that brings Tom to us daily.. our front door..Tom used his skill and we have a door that shuts smoothly and quietly..but has that heavy feel, like when Tom would pat you on the back. So, I guess we get a pat on the back from Tom everytime we go out the door. Miss you Tom!
Guy Arlet
November 14, 2010
It was not the bone crushing handshake.
It was not the gruff cavern voice.
It was not the breath robbing bear hug.
It was not the imposing stature.
No, that was not the Tom I knew.
I knew the gentle giant who was there to help , when I needed help. The big man with a kind word, when I was down. The bigger than life little boy ready to "prank" someone , including me.The deep baritone voice that told a joke at the breakfast table.
Yes Tom was all those things and so much more, but sometimes the little things are the one most often missed.
I miss you Tom.
Alice
October 17, 2010
To my dear Tom, today is the 2nd year since you have gone to be with God and to do his work. I feel that I am moving forward but I still miss you so much. I miss your messes in the kitchen and your clothes on the floor, but most of all I miss just being with you every day. When you spend 45 years with the same person it takes more than a couple of years to adjust to being alone. I know with our family and God's help I will make it. This is a prayer I found that helps me.
God, when we are overwhelmed by responsibility or struggle, we forget your ability, when we are proud of our dreams or achievements, we forget your ability, when we are faced with great suffering or great opportunity, we forget your ability. But, you are God-with all that the word implies, and you are right here, with us, within us, in partnership with us; and so whatever we may face, whatever we may have to endure or enjoy, we praise you for your devine ability that embraces us and your Holy Spirit that fill us.
With all my love.
November 18, 2009
My dearest Tom,it has been a year now that God decided he needed you more than us. He had other plans for you and only he knows them. Not a day goes by that I don't think about you and wish I could talk to you and hold your hand. I just miss you so much. The holidays are coming up and they are going to be as hard as they were last year. I still continue to take one day at a time. They say it will get better but the pain and emptiness is still there. I have so many great memories of our 45 plus years. I gave Austin your fishing pole...I knew you would want him to have it.
I know we will be together again someday and I know you are building a beautiful home in heaven for us.
I will remember you forever and will always love you.
Alice
A B
October 2, 2009
Tom, you have always been the love of my life and always will be. Today is October 2nd; it would have been our 46th annversary. I knew this was going to be a very hard day, just as all of them have been this past year. I decided to start the day like you had been doing...I went and had breakfast with "The Guys". It helped to be with them and talk to them. I tried to stay busy so the day would go by faster. Davis received an award at school today and I went with Lisa. He was so excited because he didn't know about it until they called his name. I know you were there in spirit.
You were always so proud of our grandchildren; Amanda, Austin, Davis and Carly loved being with you. You were their great big teddy bear.
Jeff is taking good care of your bike. He rode with some of the club a few weeks ago to the site; I don't think I will ever be able to ride that road again. I will never forget the wonderful times we had together and the great rides we went on and my little cat naps and bumbing my helmet against yours. I always felt so safe with you that I could completely relax and enjoy myself.
Good night my love and remember I will always love you, Alice.
Tonya
September 28, 2009
Tom,
Sorry for the date in my last message to you, as it indicated we took the "ride" on October 17th, in which in spirit I am sure there were many of us on wheels riding with you as you rode into the blue sky above.
I sure am glad that Butch, Guy and myslef got to see you.
Thanks for the Ride!
Jeff Brown
September 28, 2009
Dad, it was 1 year ago today we got that dreadful call that you had been in an accident. I remember it so clearly, my thoughts racing widly.
I miss you so much Dad.
I'm caring for your bike the best I know how to, even though I could never come close to as good as you did. I ride your bike frequently and with pride, knowing you control it as I sit in your seat and hold onto the bars. On September 6th, I rode with some of the BSR members to Ponderosa. I stopped with the group at the "curve". I spent a few emotional minutes walking the road and trying to imagine that day. I have a special memorial planned in your honor in the meadow, just off that curve. Not a day goes by that I don't think about you. I've had several dreams where you and I are talking casually, and then I notice you drifting away, becoming more and more transparent. I beg you to stay because there's so much I want to ask you. And with that calming smile, you just say, "You'll figure it out", and then you're gone.
I hate that dream, but I cherish it.
Dad, times are hard, but everything will work out with perseverance. I'm looking forward to joining in on the Toy Run this winter.
I know you'll be there with us.
I love you Dad.
Your humbled son,
Jeff.
Tonya
September 25, 2009
Tom,
A couple weeks ago several of us took "the"ride. It was somewhat different then when we rode it on October 17, 2008.
As you know your son proudly rode your bike over what is "now" your road. Jeff had asked to stop at the "place", which I am sure it was to add to the closure of this sad and tragic time.
I must say Tom, it was hard going back and revisiting that curve, exspecially knowing what motorcycle was behind us. Talk about vivid memories!
Tom you are not forgotten, as a matter of fact you are talked about quite a bit, as you have left many memories with most, either by your smart witted tongue or your talanted wood craftsmanship.
At last but not least, the legend that will remain on Jeffs arm for eternity, WOW!
AB
February 28, 2009
My dearest Tom, It's been 4 months now and it doesn't feel like it's getting any easier. I still miss you like it was yesterday. Lisa is keeping me busy and I'm busy with the hospital but the house is still empty when I come home. I somehow made it through the holidays with Lisa's help but yesterday was rough; it was my birthday and you weren't there to tease me about being a year older. Once again, Lisa came to my rescue and kept me busy. We went to Carly's school and watched her receive an award and we went and watched Amanda's soccer playoff game last night. She was so awesome scoring 2 of the 4 goals and her team won taking them to the Regional playoffs. I know you were watching her from a much better seat than we had and I know how proud you always were of all our grandchildren. I think about you and talk to you every day. You will always be in my heart and with me.
With all my love, "Me"
T G
December 15, 2008
Tom,
Not a day goes by that we don't think of you, talk about you and even joke about you. All in good humor since you are not here to defend youself, we try to keep it on the light side, but hey you know your BSR buddies, they are crazy and sometimes hard to control, yeah right , ther is no controlling them as you well know, but still all in good humor. Just keep the snide smile as you listen from above and every now and then send a single of sarcasism and they will know where it came from.
Wish you were here for the holidays, as I am sure your family will truly be sadden and miss your presence, however your memories will carry each and everone through the difficult times.
We miss you Tom.
Suzee Rice-Moran
December 2, 2008
Dear Alice, Jeff, Lisa and Family.
I just heard of Toms passing. My deepest sympathy to you and your family. I only met Tom once at a sleep over with Lisa. With that one visit many years ago I still remember what a kind man Tom was. I wish for you and your family comfort and peace during this difficult time. Hugs and Love,
biker friend
November 18, 2008
The rides aren't the same, and the sadness still lingers, as will for a long time to come.
Alice dear, we all love you and are here for you. Don't hesitate to contact Tom's and your biker brothers and sisters when you need us.
T G
November 17, 2008
Tom,
I guess it is time to say my final farewell, as this chapter is about to run out and these pages will close forever. I could not let the book close without saying one last Good bye.
You are truly missed!
Good bye my friend, Good bye.
Jeff Brown
November 16, 2008
Dad, what can I say. Words could never describe the loss of your presence, and how we feel about not having you around for us. I miss the feel of your ginormous hands and the way you engulf me with your embrace. I miss the way you would adjust your hat and say, "What's up?" I miss your roaring laughter when I told one of my stupid jokes to you. I'm sorry if I took you and your mortality for granted. I thought I wouldn't be dealing with this for a long time. There are still many things that we have to complete. But I know you and our Father will provide the strength, wisdom and understanding to accomplish those projects. Dad, I miss you so much. My heart aches everyday. I know I'm being selfish for wanting you back on this earth, here with us, our family and all of your friends. It seems like you are out on a long ride. But somehow, I find some comfort, even with really not completely understanding that you are in the happiest place in the entire universe. Dad, you were the greatest teacher and friend I could have ever known. I could never repay you for all the "Life Lessons" you taught me. I know at times, I was probably your biggest headache. But I always respected and admired you. Dad, you ARE my mentor. I never really cared what I did career-wise, I just wanted you to be proud of me. I hope I was never a disappointment to you. Dad, you taught me many different trades, how to be a man, a son, a brother, a husband, and a father. You taught me to be accountable, respectful, and sometimes, dignified. To me Dad, you will always be, "The Man, The Myth, The Legend." Dad, I look foward to the day when, once again I can look into your eyes, see your smile, hear you laugh, tell you how much I've missed you, and to tell you to your face again, I love you Dad.
Ride on Dad. . . Ride on.
We are 10-7.
John Lunsford (Bakersfield Street Riders)
November 16, 2008
Hey Tom,
I was thinking of you yesterday. I made another trip down Hwy 33 to Ojai, thinking of the time we all stopped to take a group picture. You always stood out from all the rest of us. You and Alice made the perfect couple. Diane and I really love you both and we'll surely miss you. Ray and I will take Alice on our dinner rides when she asks. Take care and say "hey" to our James. Our love to you, Tom. God be with you.
November 7, 2008
Tom,
The time has come to close the page of yet another chapter in our lives. I thank you and Alice for the friendship we grew to enjoy and also appriciate.
Rest in peace my friend, until we all meet again.
November 6, 2008
Tom,
Theres not a day goes by that I don't think of the 'ride', the time that followed and the final farewell.
I suppose I have not let go of the fact that we really did loose a terriffic friend.
Take care my friend and rest in peace.
Debby Cleghorn
November 5, 2008
Alice,
I only found out about Tom today but I wanted you to know that my thoughts go out to you. Jerry and I enjoyed his company over the years and have been fortunate enough to be a part of many of the family get togethers. Tom always had a smile and a big handshake for us.
DAVID FLETCHER
November 1, 2008
Hey Tom,
This is Fletch, your BSR "brother". I just wanted to say a few things that have been going through my mind.
Since your passing, a lot of deep feelings, emotions and experiences have been revisited. It is with heartfelt sincerity that I write these thoughts.
I have given a lot of consideration to the hat that you so often wore that said "The man, The myth, The legend". You were truly a "man" as witnessed by your mortality and departure from this physical earth. The "myth" is no longer and has been dispelled. You were definitely the real McCoy! The "legend" has a very deep truth to it. The fact that you were an expert craftsman and left behind many of your creations that can be remembered for years to come as well as the children, grandchildren, loving wife, family and friends who will have memories to share and cherish, makes you a legend in my mind. How sad I am to know that I broke bread and shared many great adventures on motorcycle with such a legend and did not even realize it. You lived your life with great passion. It was reflected in your family, work and play. You have left a huge "footprint" on this great earth and in my heart. You were the John Wayne in my life! You left us as a very rich man, born out by all the friends, relatives and acquaintances that showed their respects to you at your final resting place.
I certainly do miss seeing that impish grin you would get when you were up to some prankish little trick or joke that you had just told. You were one of the few people around that could make me feel not so big in size. I could bump sholders with you without fear of hurting you. Gosh, I'm gonna' miss you big guy. I will always be your friend!
With utmost respect,
Your "brother" in spirit,
Dave "Fletch" Fletcher
BSR President
Lisa Towery
October 29, 2008
Mr Brown as I always called you. You and I have done buisness together for years. I have heard all the great stories about your wife and children and grandloves. You will truly be missed by all. May God love you as much as we all did.
Lisa Towery Bakersfield Glass
John & Rita Root
October 24, 2008
Rita and I met Tom & Alice when we joined the Bakersfield Street Riders in Jan 2006. One of our first rides was over to Ventura coast and Rita had her new camera. I remember trying to get along side Tom so Rita could take his picture as we rode along. We shared many special moments with Tom and lots of photos. I reflect back on our trip to Jean, Nv for the Laughlin River Run. Turned out that both of us loved the slot machine " Wheel of Fortune" and we kept hitting jackpots. Rita and I rode with Tom and Alice on many trips over the last few years including our first trip to Beatty, Nv. Tom also came to our home and remodeled our master bedroom.
(Timothy 4-7) Tom , you fought the good fight and finished the race. You kept the faith, and God awaits you in heaven. One day we will meet again for another ride. Until then our prayers will be with Alice and your family.
Pat Ryan
October 24, 2008
Tom Brown - Unforgettable Man !!!
I've known the legendary Tom Brown since the early 70's.
Alice was the love of his life and continues to fill his heart in heaven.
The numerous times spent with Tom were either related to woodworking, construction or motorcycles.
His hands were bigger than a bear and stronger and tougher than nails.
Tom's heart was large and his smile larger !!!
You impacted each of us in a special way !!
Tom Brown, you will remain a part of our hearts forever.
Your love of your wife, daughter, son and grandchildren (and motorcycles too) will never be forgotten.
Tom, your beautiful wife Alice and your family will be kept in our prayers and thoughts.''
Tom, I look forward to seeing you in Heaven. God Bless your Family....
We Love Motorcycles -and Tom Brown too !!! Pat Ryan
Tracy Gillette
October 24, 2008
Tom, What a fun pleasure it was to ride behind you on our BSR rides.
Larry and I will never forget you.
Blessings to Alice and family.
Larry & Tracy Gillette,
Bakesfield Street Riders
Les Pennington
October 23, 2008
We first met Tom and Alice when we moved to Bakersfield from Fresno in 1968. Our kids were of similiar ages and were in the same school. Susan and Alice became great friends and I became of friend of Tom. We moved to Denver in 1977 but we kept in touch over the years. Alice, you have our deepest syjmpathy. Tom was a very good person and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
T. G
October 23, 2008
Today is the day Tom, our final farewell to you, on earth that is. May you rest in peace.
So long my friend, so long.
Florene Rowles
October 23, 2008
Alice, Although we had never met Tom , we are so sorry for your loss.
we want you to know that your Missouri cousins extend our sympathy to you and your family.
Elmer & Florene Rowles
Alice Brown
October 23, 2008
To the love of my life. We have spent 45+ years together; it seems so strange not having you there to hug and scratch your beard when it got too shaggy. I still laugh when I think about the summer we became engaged. I was working as a counselor at Jameson Ranch in Glennville and you wore out 4 brand new tires coming up to see me on my day off. We had our hard times just like everyone else but our good and great times far exceeded those. You have left a wonderful legacy; our two wonderful children and 4 exciting grandchildren. They will miss their Papa greatly. You made and built many things for our children and grandchildren. This is something they will always treasure. All I have to do is walk from room to room in our home and you are there because of all the beautiful things you have built and made for us throughout our lives.
We enjoyed so many great trips with our friends on the motorcycle; this was something we both loved to do.
Austin will never forget his trip with you two years ago; you had 3 weeks and 3000 miles together. This is something he still talks about.
I miss you so much but you will always be in my heart and my thoughts and I treasure the time we had together and I know we will be together again someday.
With all my love, Alice
Guy Arlet
October 22, 2008
Tom and I shared a lot of miles on the road, we shared rooms on some of our trips, and we shared thoughts as we drifted off to sleep. I never had a brother, but if I did, I would have liked Tom to be him.
Good night "bro" sleep well.
Guy
Michael Hancock
October 22, 2008
I guess that I've known Tom Brown for about 20 years now. He was definitely a Master Craftman and man that could be counted on to do an excellent job at anything that he undertook. There are literally hundreds of families here in Bakersfield that have been lucky enough to have Tom bring his skills to their homes. He was always a man that could be counted on for a good word and never one to complain about anything. With Tom's passing we have come to the end of an era. There will never be another quite like him.
Eric Turner
October 22, 2008
TOM, the father I never had, wow Tom, THE BIG (BROWN) BEAR, I am at a loss for words, it is hard to put into words what kind of man you were, your heart was big and kind and you could be so gentle I will always remember our camping and fishing trips and you inventing the coors burger (ha ha) had to be there. You will always be in my heart and I am here for all of the family when and if they need me. We will miss you greatly. Eric and family
Martha & Tom Hunter
October 22, 2008
We met Tom & Alice on a cruise in 1994 as "seating" partners for dinner. We had such a wonderful time with them on that cruise that we have remained friends ever since. Even though we live on the East Coast we have always stayed in touch with emails and photos, and even made a few visits with Tom & Alice while in California visiting family. We have always cherished their friendship and kindness. Tom will be greatly missed and will always remain in our hearts and our prayers. May you rest in peace dear friend.....
Tyler Clutts
October 22, 2008
Mr. Brown you will be missed and have fun in heaven with jesus. Say hi to my family, friends, and abby for me. I will be there for Jeff and the rest of your family always. God Bless and Rest In Peace
Tonya Giggy
October 22, 2008
Tom Brown, a true and dear friend. No words can express the sorrow we have come to live with after loosing such a dear friend, fellow rider and most of all a "brother", as Butch would say.
We thank both Tom and Alice for the friendship we grew to love and cherish.
So long Tom, until we meet again.
Your "Brother" and friend
Butch and Tonya Giggy
Wally Lemaster
October 22, 2008
Tom and I met back in the mid 90's. We both loved riding motorcycles, and would go on long rides together, often over nighters. We have been from Ensenada Mexico to Sturgis South Dakota. I am going to miss his big belly laughs and sense of humor. Tom was, and will always be one of the greatest guys I know. When we moved to Montana Tom rode his motorcycle up here to visit us, and we all had a great time riding up to Glacier Park. It didn't matter where we were going, Tom was ready to ride. Good bye old friend, and rest in peace.
John Lunsford
October 22, 2008
Tom Brown is a good friend of mine. I met him one morning while having breakfast at DonnaKaye's three years ago. We both share the same interest...motorcycles. He has his Honda Valkuryie and me with a Honda Gold Wing. Over the course of these past years Tom and I made many miles together on those bikes. Rain or shine, Tom couldn't care less. We rode! Tom and I joined the Bakersfield Street Riders after meeting Butch Giggy, our Fonzie, at the December Bike Run for Christmas. As a group, Tom attended all meetings with his wife, Alice, along with so many of our rides. What a couple they made. Tom, my friend, you will be sorely missed by me and all the friends and family that you have. You will continue to be with us in spirit and we will continue talking of the good times we had with your friendship. May God bless and keep you in His arms. Your friends, John & Diane
Angela Brown
October 22, 2008
My Father-in-law, Tom was a great man. He had such a big heart and loved his family so much. I only knew Tom a little over 2yrs but he was more than a father-in-law. I called him Dad. Tom was a great father-in-law. He helped me go back to school without even thinking about it. Tom had such a big heart. I will miss you so much. R.I.P
I love you Dad.
Ray Van Meter
October 22, 2008
Tom, My Friend,
Words cannot express how much you are going to be missed. I truly will miss the rides we shared not to mention the many breakfasts, lunches and dinners we had together. You are a true friend and "brother". Alice, what can I say? I am so sorry for your loss but believe this, you will always be a friend and "sister" to me and the rest of the Bakersfield Street Riders.
David Van Meter
October 22, 2008
Tom you were a one of a kind and will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing you. sleep peacefully little giant.
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