Eric Neil Brown

Eric Neil Brown, 65, of Austin, Texas, passed away on August 11th, 2025. Born in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, Eric lived a life shaped by creativity, adventure, and a deep love and hope for family.

Eric earned his Master's degree in Architecture from the Savannah College of Art and Design, a career he took great pride in. His passion for design was matched by his love of the water and adventure-he made homes, boats, and memories on the shores of Florida and Belize, and in the mountains of Colorado, always happiest when surrounded by family and water with a fishing pole or paddle in hand. He was a die-hard Cardinals fan and found ways to watch his Birds play no matter where he lived.

Of all his accomplishments, Eric was proudest of being a father. His daughter, Samantha Brown, was his greatest joy and his anchor. Though Samantha was his only child, Eric loved her brother, Cody Boone, as though he were his own son. He also took the role of Uncle very seriously; he loved sharing that he had over 40 nieces and nephews, and will always be remembered as the guy who was willing to get you into a little bit of trouble or the one who showed up with a tool belt to fix anything. To Eric, being "dad" was more than a title-it was his favorite job, one he embraced and only wished he could share more.

Eric is survived by his daughter, Samantha Brown of Austin, TX; his brother, Kevin Brown of Kansas City, Missouri; his chosen son, Cody Boone of Washington, Missouri; his nephew, Justine Appleby of Whitefish, Montana, and many more. He is also remembered fondly by his former wife, Laura (Klapp) Bergsieker, and her husband, Brad Bergsieker, whom he counted as dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marion and Wesley Brown, and his brother Brian Brown.

Eric will be remembered for his long winded stories, his resilience, and most of all, his love for his family.