James McCaslin Brown

Dr. Jim McCaslin Brown, 87, passed away in his sleep at home, February 12, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska.

Born with a deep curiosity for the natural world and an enduring commitment to education and community, Dr. Brown's life was marked by academic excellence, professional dedication, and vibrant personal passions.

Jim began his academic journey at Fairbanks High School and quickly distinguished himself as a scholar. He earned scholarships to attend the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where he pursued his love of science. His academic path led him to the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where he earned Bachelor and Master's degrees in Geology, and then to the University of Wisconsin with a PhD in Structural Geology. His doctoral work included an extensive original dissertation on the structural geology of the Canadian Grenville Front that contributed meaningfully to his field.

Professionally, Jim dedicated his career to engineering geology. He worked in the private sector for both international and Alaskan firms, with extensive field work on the Trans Alaska Pipeline and many projects in rural Alaska. He was a lifelong member of the Geological Society of America. His expertise and passion for teaching led him into academia, where he became known for his work with several institutions including the University of Alaska Anchorage, the University of Wisconsin, Indiana University, Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), and Alaska Pacific University. At APU, he retired as Professor Emeritus-a recognition of his national professional status and testament to his lasting impact on students and colleagues alike. Even after retirement, Jim continued to mentor graduate students as a counseling professor for advanced degrees.

In addition to his many pursuits, Jim served in the U.S. Army Reserve for eight years beginning in 1963. After boot camp at Fort Ord, California, he served in Wisconsin and Indiana in the Judge Advocate's Corp. He was elected to the School Board for the Valdez School District, coached Little Dribbler's basketball and one of the first soccer teams in Wasilla. Actively supportive of the Iditarod, he donated historic family photos and items to the University of Alaska Fairbanks Archives.

Beyond his academic and professional achievements, Jim was deeply engaged in music and athletics. A lifelong flute and piccolo player, he was a founding member and president of the Anchorage Community Concert Band. He also performed with enthusiasm in the Anchorage Pep Band-also known as the Front Row Seats Band-bringing joy to audiences through music.

Jim's love for sports was equally enduring. He played hockey for the University of Alaska Fairbanks Polar Bears through college and remained active in local leagues throughout his life. In Anchorage, he skated with various teams including the Flaming A's old men's league, where he was affectionately known as "Brownie." He was an avid hockey fan and always a season ticket holder for the Anchorage Aces and UAA men's hockey.

He is survived by his wife Gladys Brown; blended family of daughters Robin Riendl (Paul) and Shelly Brown (George) and former wife Dean Brown; and sons Jimmy Duplantis (Pam), Johnny Duplantis, and his beloved granddaughter Jessica Duplantis.

Dr. Jim McCaslin Brown leaves behind a legacy defined by intellectual rigor, artistic expression, athletic spirit, and service to others. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to those who follow in his footsteps.