James Paul Brown

James Paul Brown, 77, of Hiawatha, passed away peacefully on December 11, 2025, at St. Luke's Hospital in Cedar Rapids, surrounded by his family. A Memorial Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at Brosh Chapel. Brosh Chapel and The Avacentre are assisting the family.

James was born on July 15, 1948, in Cedar Rapids to Robert and Sybil (Fetzer) Brown. He grew up in Cedar Rapids and graduated from Jefferson High School. After spending two years at the University of Iowa, he returned home to take over the family business, Brown Plumbing. He worked as a plumber and dedicated many years to growing the business before retiring and passing it on to his two stepsons, Jon and Jeff Shebetka.

Jim lived a full and joyful life. When he wasn't working, he could often be found golfing, playing cards, fishing, watching his beloved Iowa Hawkeyes, or spending time with family, friends, and his grandchildren. On May 14, 1986, he married the love of his life, Shirleen Brown. Together they enjoyed years of travel, especially their trips to Mexico, and cherished their winters spent at their home in Arizona, where they built many lifelong friendships and memories.

James is survived by his wife of 39 years, Shirleen Brown; daughter Jennifer (Mark) Weaver; son Gregory Brown; stepsons Jon (Jen) Shebetka, Jeff (Lori) Shebetka, and Mike Shebetka; and grandchildren Sydney (Austin) Kerska, Anna Weaver, Zachary O'Hare, Croix Shebetka, Elli Shebetka, Ayven Shebetka, Amber (Dallas) Camp, Haley (Alex) Murley, and Kain (Molly) Schilling. He is also survived by great-grandchildren Kasen James Kerska, Will and Aayliah O'Hare, Hogan and Dayton Bowman, Joselyn Camp, Kyla and Gunner Schilling, and Paisley and Olive Murley; siblings Dick (Mary) Brown and Sandi (Brown) Cobb (Pat); and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Sybil Brown.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Heart Association in his name.

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