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Ralph Brown Obituary
Brown, Ralph E. 79, beloved husband of almost 40 years (this July 19th) of Suzanne "Sue" Brown (nee Wiley), passed away April 8 following a long illness. He will be deeply missed by his stepdaughter, Nina Marie, his family, law partners, clients and many friends. A lifelong Chicagoan, Ralph attended the U. of Ill. and the U. of Chic. Law School. He began as a Public Defender of Cook County, ran his own practice for 10 years, then joined Walsh, Case and Brown. From 1989 to 2005, he was a shareholder in Schuyler, Roche and Zwirner. At the time of his death he was Of Counsel with that firm. In October of 2007, he was among those honored for 50 years of membership in The Chicago Bar Association. He was admitted to practice in many court systems, including the U.S. Supreme Court, and the Illinois and Wyoming Supreme Courts. Ralph traveled the world and was conversant about many cultures, especially those of the ancient Americas. He and Sue made numerous trips to southern Mexico, Central and South America and the American Southwest viewing the ruins and cultural artifacts. His interests reached beyond the law, championing various causes, including population control. Per his request, a "Celebration of Life" is being planned for Friday, May 2nd, from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. (service at 2:00) at one of his favorite restaurants. For info, please e-mail [email protected] or call Cremation Society of Illinois: 773-281-5058. Memorial contributions may be made to the animal shelter, Orphans of the Storm, P. O. Box 31, Deerfield, IL, 60015, (www.orphansofthestorm.org) or a charity of your choice. 
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ralph Brown
David Marcus
April 10, 2022
What a wonderful gift, this remembrance of Ralph. Reading the posts sharpens my memories and reconfirms my belief in Ralph´s gentle genius. He was so helpful to his "brother Billy"´s family to which I belong. I find encouragement in this remembrance because it reminds me that God has the power to add Ralph´s to this world and that will be a gift to all. I will look for you with anticipation. I have lost track of Sue. If anyone can help connect me, if possible, I would appreciate it. [email protected].
Norman Axelrad
April 10, 2021
A great guy with a keen intelligence. Norman
Dick Weinberg
April 30, 2008
Please add me to the list of those who admired Ralph. Not only was he a sound lawyer, but also a very creative one. He came up with new ideas for solving the toughest of problems, He was a genuinely nice man and a good partner.
Carol Doty
April 21, 2008
The trustees of the Morrison-Shearer Foundation are forever indebted to Ralph for his friendship, his counsel, and his wisdom. He was "a gentleman and a scholar" in the truest sense. We miss him.
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Richard Bullock
April 18, 2008
I offer my sincerest condolences and prayers to Ralph's family. Ralph was such a kind , wise and moral man and a perfect example of what "of counsel" should be in the legal profession and in life. It was a pleasure and honor to have known him as a counselor and friend in some very difficult times, and good times.
Doris & Bennett Klavan
April 17, 2008
Although many years have passed, we still remember the times that we spent with Sue and Ralph. We send Sue and Nina our deepest condolences.
Norman Axelrad
April 16, 2008
Ralph was unusually well informed in an amazing variety of subjects, and his insightful perspectives were always stimulating and thought provoking. It was always a pleasure getting together with Ralph and Sue. Norm and Sandy Axelrad
Pat Schill
April 16, 2008
Sue,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. There are no magic words, only time.
Love, Pat
mark Stein
April 16, 2008
Ralph was a genius
a gentleman
a great lawyer
and a good friend.
Dan & Becky James
April 16, 2008
Our very dear friend in Santa Fe. We will miss his compassion, intellect and sharp wit.
geri & gunther aron
April 16, 2008
Our deepest sympathy to Sue, and to Ralph's friends and family. We only wish we'd had the opportunity to know him better and longer.
geri & gunther aron
santa fe, n.m.
Carol Kosterka
April 16, 2008
Our "Peru Group" will miss you, Ralph. Our political discussions will not be the same without your wit and intelligence. Carol Kosterka
David Marcus
April 16, 2008
Ralph Brown was a most extraordianry man. Even in the fight for his life, Ralph demonstrated a lightness of being that was his hallmark. As an attorney, husband, father, brother and to me, uncle, Ralph was always truely present. His briliant mind would search for the true meaning in any question or issue raised. He always found that meaning, and his responses were keen, insightful, creative and spot on. He spoke with heart and soul. Our loss of Ralph will never come close to the abundance of joy that all who knew him will always hold in their hearts. His gifts to all of us in life through his kindness, generosity, commitment to truth and excellence and brilliant legal mind will transcend generations. He will be missed, but remembered far longer.
Mrs, Samuel Britt
April 16, 2008
Dear family and friends:
I offer my deep condolences to you. In the spirit of the Apostle Paul, we read: "For all things I have the strength by virtue of him who imparts power to me." Phillipians 4:13
sandra&Bob yolles&Marsh
April 16, 2008
It was a privilege to know Ralph. He enriched our lives.
Phyllis Marcus
April 16, 2008
In loving memory of Ralph Brown,and in appreciation of all he meant to each of us.He enriched our lives by his light.He remains in our hearts forever.Our love to Sue and Nina.The Marcus family.
Paul Fung
April 16, 2008
I will miss a wonderful and loyal friend for over 40 years.
May he rest in peace.
Camille Grejczyk
April 16, 2008
Sue, both Ralph and you are in my thoughts and prayers. Ralph is now at peace and I know you have comfort knowing that. Lots of love, Camille
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