John G. Brownell

John G. Brownell, 90, of Midland, died unexpectedly Sunday evening, Nov. 20, 2005, at the MidMichigan Medical Center.

He was born Oct. 30, 1915, in Charlevoix, son of the late Chester and Lillian (Crawford) Brownell. He graduated from Flint Central High School and had worked as a car salesman for Frank-McNally Buick Chevrolet Dealership in Flushing for 17 years. John married the former Shirley Decker on Aug. 9, 1962, in Flint. He had taught piano for 20 years and enjoyed music. He also liked woodworking and playing golf, and had recorded a hole-in-one at the age of 85. John enjoyed people and his greatest enjoyment was helping others.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley; two sons, John (Teri) Brownell of Bay City and Jim (Ann) Brownell of Au Gres; three daughters, Teena Brownell of Midland, Thayer (Gale) Bradish of Midland and JoAnne (Bill) Brewer of Flushing; one sister, Jean (Behn) of McClean, Va.; 11 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by two brothers, Bob and Bill.

Funeral services will take place at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2005, from the Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Chapel. Pastor David Brown of the First Baptist Church will officiate.

John's family will receive friends at the funeral home today from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m., and on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until time of service.

Memorials are available for the donor's favorite charity. If you are unable to visit with the family in person, you may share your condolences through www.waresmithwoolever.com.