BROWN, John Ray (Brownie)

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona - 04/20/2010 John Ray Brown died in Lake Havasu City at the age of 71 April 14. Ray was born in Ft. Collins, Colo. Feb.13, 1939 to Richie and Bernice Brown. Nicknamed "Brownie," Ray attended high school and spent most of his childhood in Cheyenne, Wyo. After high school, Ray entered the U.S. Air Force, remaining in Cheyenne, where he cleaned and maintained missile silos. Upon completion of his service he started his family and sold Chevrolets at the Cheyenne dealership. Ray had a passion for drag cars, and was involved in racing and building motors. Ray held the record in B Modified Sport in drag racing for a period of time. He moved to Phoenix for a short time, then arrived in Lake Havasu City 27 years ago. Ray worked for Campbell Biesmeyer boats and eventually opened his own shop, RB Boats, and spent many years pursuing his passion for racing and race boats while in Lake Havasu. Ray married his beloved wife Barbara in Lake Havasu City in 1994. Ray worked at Premier Golf Cars for several years, retiring in 2002. Ray and Barbara owned a second home in Show Low, Arizona where Ray enjoyed his days of retirement spending long summers with family and friends for the past eight years. Ray loved the pines, immensely enjoying fishing, Nascar and his beloved Schnauzers. Ray is survived by his loving wife Barbara; children Rhonda Pigati, John Richie Brown (Emily), Michelle Colby (Craig), Angela Belknap, Mona Adler (Joe), and Damon Belknap; sister Donna June Green; eight grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. Ray was preceded in death by his brothers Ralph and Roy, as well as his parents. A celebration of life was held St. Michael's United Methodist Church Saturday, April 17, Pastor Lyndon Mason offered words of comfort and inspiration. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society by calling (800) 227-2345 or sending to, 2724 E Lakin, Ste 9 Flagstaff, AZ 86004.