Dennis Ross Brown's Obituary
It is with deep sorrow that we announce that after a valiant battle with cancer, Dennis Brown, 79, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on February 23, 2026.
Dennis was born in San Francisco on October 2, 1946, and was raised in San Diego by his parents, Gwen (Tenney) and Hatch Brown. He graduated from San Diego High School and went on to earn an Associate’s degree.
Dennis lived a life exemplified by service. As a young man, he served a mission in Mexico to share his faith in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, beginning a lifetime of devotion to his church community. He proudly served in the California Army National Guard and carried his commitment to service into a long and meaningful career with the City of San Diego, where he faithfully served in a multitude of roles over the years.
Dennis was a man of humor, faith, and deep love for his family. He cherished endless conversations about those he loved most and enthusiastically shared his many passions, which included fancy cars, cycling, and following the stock market. He had a gift for connection and found joy in engaging with friends, neighbors, and members of his community.
He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia (Duehring), with whom he shared nearly fifty wonderful years of marriage. Together, Patti and Dennis made their home in Poway, where they raised their children: Kevin (and wife Kerrie), Stephen (and wife Rochelle Gaudette), Melissa (and husband Derek Brockman), and Michelle.
He was proudly known as “Papa Brown” to his nine cherished grandchildren: Riley, Emily, Mitchel, Madison, Royce, Tawny, Canyon, Nolan, and Malachi. He is also survived by his siblings: Ellen (and husband Lee) Manning, Janice (and husband Lloyd) Dill, and Kathleen Lynch (and husband Jack Roscoe).
Services and burial will be held on March 23, 2026, at Greenwood Memorial Park in the Salli Lynn Chapel. A viewing will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m., concluding at the gravesite at noon.
Dennis will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his dedication to service, his quick wit, and the unwavering love he had for his family. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.
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