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Steven Brown Obituary
Memorial Celebration and Time of Sharing, Wednesday, 6:30pm West Center Chapel. Private Inurnment Evergreen Memorial Park. Memorials to the Child Saving Institute or Open Door Mission. HEAFEY-HEAFEY-HOFFMANN
DWORAK-CUTLER
WEST CENTER CHAPEL
78th & West Center 391-3900
This obituary was originally published in the Omaha World-Herald.
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Memories and Condolences
for Steven Brown
Sponsored by Wendy Piller.
April 30, 2016
You are in my heart forever. Love kathryn piller
Robin Mitchell
October 20, 2009
I was inspired by "Browny," when he launched KISN in Portland, Oregon May 1, 1959 for Don Burden...KOIL's owner.
I have several inspired Steve Brown
audio snippets on my website: http://www.rma1.com from the KISN days.
I spoke with Steve several years ago, and he was trying to talk me into working with him on a book....which sadly I did not have the time to do.
I'd like to work on a audio book to capture Steve Brown "moments."
Angela Vega-Johnson (Inside Urban America)
December 19, 2008
...We are deeply saddened to hear that Steve passed on this week. Paul Bryant and I, have very fond memories of Steve, as our program "Inside Urban America' aired right after his every Sunday.....I thought, WOW, how do 'we' follow such a legendary Talk Show Host on KKAR.....and Steve graciously told us that he listened to Paul and I every week! Just like Steve to have a kind word....in fact, he oftened stayed in the studios with us as we began our program.
Paul and I are very happy to have had the priviledge not only to work with Steve, but, to have interviewed Steve in 2006, about his favorite subject, Steve!!! What a fascinating life he had in radio! A true pioneer....a true professional in the 'biz!"
We will miss the 'voice' of Omaha.....and his stories (as we all sat in the studios of KKAR) of his family, whom he spoke of often with that smile & tinkle in his eyes.
You have our deepest condolences....and if there is anything we can do to help bring comfort during this time of loss....please do not hesitate to contact us.
God bless you....
Angela Vega-Johnson,
for Paul Bryant
Inside Urban America (Program)
Mary O and the one and only Steve Brown
Mary O'Keefe
December 18, 2008
Steve's great support and encouragement always meant so much to me. He was an original...THE ORIGINAL.
Mary O'Keefe
Ed Larsen
December 18, 2008
So saddened to hear the news of Steve's passing. Steve Brown was magical.
My favorite "Brownie" memory was 1978 at KOIL when Chris Collins would walk in every afternoon with a fast food burger bag for dinner. Steve would be smoking in the lounge and ask Chris why he didn't eat a more healthy diet. Chris' quick response was that Brown had never invited him to dinner. Steve fired back that the reason an invitation was never offered was the concern that Chris would not be comfortable eating a meal at a place "without writing on the napkins."
I will always remember Steve Brown's clever wit, he was the consummate radio professional.
My condolences to his family and friends.
John A 'JAG' Greenleaf
December 17, 2008
WOW, after reading the previous entries, what more can be said? Steve had a voice all his own! I worked at 101.9 THE EDGE when Steve was at KKAR. I found him to be a easy guy to talk to and he didn't laugh at any of the questions I had about radio. Steve was a walking history book of Omaha radio. Rest in peace Steve and God Bless you and your family!
Ed Thompson
December 17, 2008
I am privileged to have known and worked with Steve Brown at KKAR. In my production room, it was a joy to watch him weave a compelling story for a commercial with nothing more than two or three copy points on a napkin. Yet as passionate as he was for radio, he had more passion for people. He treated everyone exactly the same way...like they were the most important person in the room.
Steve used to say, "If it ain't fun we ain't doin' it." There aren't many better words by which to live.
Bruce Thiebauth
December 17, 2008
I first met Brownie back in 1969 and later worked with him and all of the Star Stations crew as I started with Bridal Fair®. Brownie was instrumental (no pun intended Brownie) in getting the original "The Morning of Our Lives" music produced with ABC/Dunhill and it went up to about #60 on the EZ Listening charts. Great pipes as we say in this biz owned by a great guy and talent. I am truly proud to have known you, my friend and you will be deeply missed. I hope lots of 'ol KOIL folks are able to say goodbye this evening. God bless you and all of your family.
Diane Sloderbeck
December 17, 2008
Many
years ago Steve was the "voice of World Radio." I was their advertising
director at the time, and we were in the recording booth virtually
every week for a couple of years producing literally thousands of radio
spots together. He was warm, funny, professional, and an incredibly
entertaining guy to work with. Before then I knew him when he was at
KOIL. As part of a promotion I was working on, I got stuck wearing a
gorilla suit to the mayor’s office for a press conference announcing a
zoo fundraiser. Since I couldn't drive in the gorilla suit, he drove me
there - it was quite a riot walking the streets of Omaha in a monkey
suit with Steve Brown.
All these years - I would occasionally run into him and he would always
greet me just like he had seen me the week before. He will be missed as
a legendary part of Omaha radio history
Dennis and Lori Rochford
December 17, 2008
We were shocked and saddened to
learn of Steve's passing. He was
the real deal, and a truly Good Guy. Our thoughts and prayers go out to
his family and Kathryn and her family.
May he rest in peace.
JAY ROSARIO
December 17, 2008
You will be missed !
You where the only person in Omaha who would cover topics on the radio that people wanted to hear.
GOD Bless You and rest in Peace.
Sincerely
Jay ROSARIO.
Jim McKernan
December 17, 2008
Adios to a legendary radio broadcaster whose iconic voice and delivery will resonate in my mind forever.
Wanda Gottschalk
December 17, 2008
For ten years, Steve Brown was a special part of the Child Saving Institute KKAR Radiothon. The childcare kids - age 4 - always sang on Steve's show during the radiothon - it was great fun to watch Steve interacting with the kids. Steve was very interested in Omaha's young people and the challenges so many of them deal with in today's world. He cared deeply about the children and their well being. Steve as a special guy - he will be missed by all who were privileged to know him.
Wanda Gottschalk - Child Saving Institute
Steve Baker
December 17, 2008
I had the privilege of working with Steve in the late 70's when he was a PD at KOIL. I was saddened to hear of his passing.
Steve has done something quite rare - made a lifetime career in radio with most of it in one place. To accomplish that, you must be someone special.
He certainly was.
Mulberry Lane
December 17, 2008
Steve was always supportive of our music. Not only was he the ultimate radio professional, but also a friend on the air and off. Fairwell in four- part harmony.
Rachel Bone
December 17, 2008
Steve will be missed by many. I had the good fortune of getting to know him over the years, but had not seen him in a while. He was always willing to work me into a show or emcee a program when asked, when I was working for a good cause. I loved his Mustangs too. I know Ted and many others with highly recognizable names will miss him much.
George Woods
December 16, 2008
After returning to Omaha in 1995 after being away for a year, Steve Brown was the first person I called to see if he could steer me back into Omaha radio. Less than a week later, I was doing fill-in on KKAR and became part of their stable through 2002, when I went to Kansas City. An all-around radio guy, Steve became a friend to many listeners by virtue of his warm yet compelling voice, delivery, and sense of humor. Thanks, Steve, for helping me, and for entertaining thousands of Omahans. Omaha Radio won't be the same without you.
Dave Barrow
December 16, 2008
On February 18, 1995, Steve and I were watching the fuel truck fill my tanks at the gas station not knowing at the same time my brother, Mike, was fighting for his life trying to save two boys from drowning in Carter Lake. One of the boys was able to escape the icy waters but the second boy and Mike lost their lives. Soon after, Steve was talking with his close friend, Ted Nugent, on the radio about the loss of my brother. This made me feel like Mike was very special and a true hero, considering they could have talked about anything. Nellie was Mike's dog and when Steve heard about her he adopted her and treated her as one of the family just as he did with everyone and everything around him. Mike, Nellie Blue Brown, the Amoco and now Steve are all gone; but the wonderful memories will always fill my heart. Kathryn - it is good to see your messages and I hope you are doing well and know I am thinking of you. I give my condolences to all Steve's family and friends. Steve, my friend, it is now your turn to soar on angel's wings. I will truly miss you.
Bruce Crawford
December 16, 2008
Just got back from London to hear this shocking news...
I last heard from Steve early last month, when he emailed to congratulate me on my "To Kill A Mockingbird" film salute. He was always supportive through the years.
It was always a fun time to be interviewed by him..He will be missed.
Kent Searl
December 16, 2008
I met Steve in 1958 at the U of N where we were both Sig Eps. Steve was a couple of years ahead of me and one of my "pledge" duties was to drive Steve to work for his late shift at KFOR. He was my first "brush" with a celebrity and I was in awe of this small guy with a huge voice. I will always remember listening to his late night show and was amused when he pushed a button releasing a deep voice proclaiming "How now brown cow". I lost track of Steve over the years and am sorry that I never got to say hello/goodbye to him in his later years. My best to his family and friends.
Dan Charleston
December 16, 2008
I had the honor of working with Browny off and on from 1978 to 2008, from KOIL, to KKAR and finally at KFAB. I am at a total loss for words right now, as this is a loss for all of us that had the chance to know him.
A true "KOIL Good Guy" til the end, a mentor, a friend that will be missed forever.
God speed Browny...I love you man!!
owen irwin
December 16, 2008
Steve's voice had a big impact in the success we expierenced in the 80's and 90's.His abilility to create urgency over the radio and television drove Rhoden Auto Center to new levels of floor traffic and sales.May God comfort his family in their time of need.
Julie Hansen
December 16, 2008
Steve Brown was that rare individual who made one and all feel that they are the most important person in the world at that particular moment. A trait that served him well in his chosen career. Steve will be missed by many - some that knew him and some that thought they knew him from the airwaves. And for a moment, they did.
Omaha has lost a legend, a mentor, a lobbyist, a friend, a voice for all times. We'll miss you, Steve!
Ron Tonkin
December 16, 2008
Steve, my good friend since 1959, rest in peace. You are remembered fondly and greatly missed. Ron B. Tonkin, Portland OR.
Aaron Martin
December 16, 2008
One of the most interesting people I have ever met. I'll miss our long artistic and creative inspired conversations. Steve was my mentor and friend.
Christina Cooper
December 16, 2008
Deepest sympathies to all of Steve's family, both his traditional family and to his radio family as well, I know that he will be missed dearly.
Sandy Overton
December 16, 2008
Steve- you will be missed, I always enjoyed our conversations.
Randy Malick
December 16, 2008
I first met Steve as an intern in 1979/80 at KOIL. He had this "aura" about him. I remember being in awe when I went into the talent studio and watched through the window into "Brownie's Production Room" as he cut a spot. After hearing that voice for so many years, it was surreal when I actually saw the man behind it and met him. He was a busy man, but often took the time to talk with me telling stories about the old days. He only strengthened the passion I had for the business. Years later, I ran into him and he remembered the lowly intern and congratulated me on sticking out the crazy radio business and "paying my dues." I was VERY saddened by the news of his death.
Harriet Hanson
December 16, 2008
Steve had a way of making all of us, who listened to him, feel as though we knew him personally. It is certainly obvious, with all of the tributes, how many lives he touched. He will be greatly missed.
Teresa Damasauskas
December 16, 2008
Steve was the one media personality that really listened to conservative issues, Outcome Based Ed... actually reporting the truth, not garbage handed out by the powers that be... Where will we find another... God rest his weary soul... he will be much missed. Teresa Damasauskas
Craig Soucie
December 16, 2008
It's just not fair to lose Steve so early in his life. I worked with him in 1975 at KOIL and was impressed at how well he supported our advertising customers and sales staff. What a great Program Director he was at that time. His music knowledge earned him the affectionate title as the "World's Oldest Teenager". You will be missed.
Denny Drake
December 16, 2008
In the 1980's when Steve was the voice of World Radio I was always in awe of his cutting edge voice. A consistant line they always said was
"WE BUY BIG SO YOU SAVE BIG"
In the late 1980's I found out that Steve no longer was doing the World Radio gig so I called him and asked if he would become the voice of one of
my clients. Now you would think that when we met it would be me taking Steve through an interview process but it was the other way around. Steve didn't just become the voice of Rhoden Auto Center for
15 years. He lived and learned their
business through me.
Thanks for everything Steve. We are
all going to miss you.
Patti Jaynes
December 16, 2008
Omaha just became a little less interesting. A legend in radio, I got to work with Steve in my first radio job at KKAR as so many did, he will be missed.
Peter J Wentzler, Sr
December 16, 2008
I listened to Steve when he had his morning show. I called in quite regularly when I was a self employed Truck Driver. It seemed no matter what time I called he put me on the air. One time it was about 10:57 and he said, "Hey, I see my good friend Pete Wentzler on the phones". He put me on and said, "Wentzler, you ok out there?". I replied "Yes" and he ended his show. It was truly an honor to have known him, met him, and speak to him. RIP and remember the line, "She has a face for radio".
Curt McLey
December 16, 2008
Few men are as passionate about their profession--indeed, their life--as was Steve Brown. I observed Steve mostly from a distance; in the last year of his life, up close. More than most, Steve cared. And even to casual observers, it showed, because it was strikingly obvious.
Kraston Scott (N0DCZ)
December 16, 2008
Feel as if I've lost a close family member...Steve will be missed by all of us. A true professional with a heart of gold. As a fellow Ham Radio operator I still recall our discussions of times past building radios and talking to people all over the world. Steve was a very talented individual that I'll never forget. God Bless Steve and all his loved ones.
Dan Duffy
December 16, 2008
Met Steve a few times. Class Act .
In addition to Steve's passion for radio, Steve 'felt' Rock-n-Roll. Knew the bands and had a knack on how musicians should be treated ..An intense passion for rock n roll bands..I got Steve's message loud & clear as a young man listening to the radio . 10-4 Steve.
December 15, 2008
Ah, Steve...so many discussion threads, so eager to learn, so ready to share knowledge, sometimes whether I wanted to hear it or not. I will miss you.
--CJ Bessey (Elkhorn, NE)
Dutch Haling
December 15, 2008
Steve was a freind and a mentor to me in many way's. We spent alot of time on the back stairs of a couple of radio stations smoking and talking about life . Steve was a survivor in radio and always did his job well. I'll miss him.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
See ya buddy!
Ken Fearnow
December 15, 2008
Steve was a humble giant among Omaha broadcast professionals. He had a unique combination of passion and compassion in life and on the job. It was an honor for me to work with. I loved and respect him. He will be missed.
Kerry Petersen
December 15, 2008
...one time running the board for Steve on KKAR I made a mistake and he got on me about it. No big deal, I thought...I made a mistake, I deserved getting a "talking to." When I got home that evening there was a very long message on my answering machine. It was Steve unnecessarily apologizing for earlier in the day and telling me how much he appreciated my efforts. Just the kind of guy he was. My sympathies to Kathryn and the family...
Ray Schaar
December 15, 2008
A good radio host makes you feel he is your friend. I met Steve a couple of times at events he hosted and I talked to him on the radio a few times. My most vivid memory comes from an email I sent him which got him laughing on the air for a few minutes. I loved listening to Steve's deep voice and his sharp humor. He will be missed. I guess he was a GREAT radio host as I feel like I have lost a good friend. Straight Ahead - Steve.
Mike Steele
December 15, 2008
Where do you start when you talk about a legend. Steve was one of the most giving people I have known. Never afraid to give advice to those who where looking for direction, always looking at how to help those that needed help. He also was never afraid to give you his opinion :-)
Steve... You will be missed by many, thanks for being you and being a friend... God Speed
Tim Peters
December 15, 2008
Steve Brown was the best of the best in radio and as a friend. Thanks for the memories.
Tim Peters
Tom Becka
December 15, 2008
I loved hearing Steve's stories about his days at KOIL. And while he loved talking about what he had accomplished he was just as interested in what others were doing.
If there's a rock and roll heaven you know they've not got a helluva radio station too.
Marilyn "Maddy" West
December 15, 2008
Throughout the years I worked with Steve at KOIL, and throughout our friendship, I was always in awe of his vast knowledge, expertise and professionalism. What a pro. I will miss his fish tales, too.
Tim Fifer
December 15, 2008
Steve, you're going to be missed neighbor. Iced coffee just won't be the same. Thanks for swapping broadcasting tips and life's stories with me. I appreciated your insight and humor. May God grant you a conservative platform in Heaven, and enough liberal material to keep you busy for eternity.
Carl Jennings
December 15, 2008
Steve Brown a true Radio Legend.
From the days of...
"THE MIGHTY 1290! KOIL.
All the good things you have done for people, it is to much to list.
Your help with PEONY PARK , Coke Date Night, Sprite Night, all the radio and film spots you did for us.
Your visits to the new park, your good advice over the many years.
It is due to your help Peony Park is
going to celebrate its 90th year!
The #1 KOIL GOOD GUY!
We will miss you much!
God's Speed Steve.
Carl & Vicki, Chris, Rachel Jennings
PEONY PARK 391-6253
Linda Weinmaster
December 15, 2008
My deepest sympathy to Steve's family and dear friend Kathryn, you are in our thoughts and prayers. I met Steve while working towards reading reform in the early 90's. I spoke on his show many times about issues affecting children including reading and mercury poisoning. Steve was never afraid to tackle the truth even if it were unpleasant. We have lost a true hero for grassroots efforts and common sense. We will miss you.
Kerry and Linda Weinmaster
Dee Perez-Lukowski
December 15, 2008
Steve Brown...When I hear that name I hear radio even when there is no radio on. I worked with Browny a long time and watched and listened to him when ever he spoke!
He was my Idol, my co-worker and mostly my friend. I loved him and I will miss him terribly...but I will still hear hear his voice, even when the radio isn't on...
Kris & Karen
December 15, 2008
We met Steve at KOIL Radio in the 1960's when we started a fan club for Joe Light. He was always friendly and had a great personality! He truly was a KOIL Good Guy and an Omaha good guy, too! He will be missed by many.
Sam Fischer
December 15, 2008
My thoughts and prayers go out to Steve and his family. We have lost a true Omaha icon.
Steve Lundy
December 15, 2008
My thoughs and prayers are with Steve's family and loved ones. I have worked with "Browny" about half my career. He gave me HUGE support throughout. He gave me insight, perspective, ideas, shared his memories, became part of mine-but mostly, was just a good guy and friend to me. The man loved radio and radio people. I will miss him. But the good part is, his voice will live on in my memory.
Joel Potter
December 15, 2008
Steve will be missed. He was a character with character. He led quite a colorful and storied life.
If there is one thing that comes to mind when I think of Steve is that he poured his life and soul into Omaha and Nebraska. He was a man with a big heart.
I met Steve as a result of his passion for the Omaha community. I was very nervous when Steve invited me to do an interview on his radio show, but Steve was as generous in person as he was on the air.
God bless Steve and his family.
don watters
December 15, 2008
Steve was truly one of the founders of modern radio in this market. His years with KOIL and KKAR were filled with fun times, innovative ideas, and genuine talent. He will certainly be missed.
don watters
kathryn piller
December 15, 2008
Everyone who loved Steve please come to his service Weds at 6:30PM at 78th and Center Heffy Heaffy Hoffman. We will say a few prayers and open the mic as steve would want us to do so you can talk.
Ron Kaplan
December 15, 2008
Hey, Steve-Oh, old pal, I hope there's an article on your amazing career and the celebrities you rubbed elbows with. I'll miss our trips down memory lane.
Ron Kaplan
David Rouzee
December 15, 2008
Steve gave me my first job in Omaha. Was a able to talk to him several times in recent years. Great broadcaster and an all time GOOD GUY!
David Rouzee aka Dave Morgan
mike omalley
December 15, 2008
Stephanie,
I am sorry to hear about the loss of your father. My prayers are with you and your family.
Mike O'Malley
kathryn piller
December 15, 2008
We love you and miss you so much.
I know you will be an angel watching over us until we see you again.
Hope you are broadcasting in Heaven and playing with Nellie and your other wonderful dogs. Catch a fish for us. You will never be forgotten.
Trish Nelson
December 15, 2008
So shocked and sorry to hear of Steve's untimely death. I have enjoyed for many years listing to him on KKAR and then on KFAB - his unique outlook on life will be much missed in this city.
Rick Arfmann
December 15, 2008
What a great man ! What a tragic loss.
Pennie Glenn
December 15, 2008
Brownie you will be deeply missed. God Bless
Tim Heller
December 15, 2008
God bless you, Steve. We're certainly going to miss Omaha's "Talk of the Town." I can't begin to tell you how long I've listened and how much I'll miss that familiar voice on my radio or just down the block. You've given many a tribute to noted Omahans who've passed away. In your honor, I hope someone has given all the bass in heaven fair warning.
Fred Brooks
December 15, 2008
Sorry to hear of the loss of a great broadcast professional. Prayers to the family.
JJ Morgan
December 15, 2008
Steve gave me a shot as an intern, and turned it into my first job in 1978 at KOIL, and I will never forget him letting me pick his brain about aspects of the business that I had, as a kid, had just began to learn about.
Many of those things he told me still stay with me 30 years later, and I will never forget him.
Thank you Steve for all you have done for the broadcasting business..you ARE the KOIL GOOD GUY!!!!
Brad
December 15, 2008
Steve was the "gold standard" of talk radio around here, and an all around great guy. Rest in peace, Steve, your shift is over, and our airwaves are the poorer for it.
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