William J. Brown
June 22, 1928 – November 26, 2024

William J. Brown, 96, a cherished resident of Naperville, Illinois, since 1957, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his three sons, on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at Edward Hospital in Naperville.

Born on June 22, 1928, in Chicago to James and Elizabeth Brown, William's life was a testament to dedication, service, and love.

He spent his early years in Chicago, where he graduated from Tilden Technical High School. Shortly after, he began a distinguished military career, enlisting in the U.S. Army and serving in Japan during the post-war occupation. He later re-enlisted with the U.S. Air Force, contributing his skills in Japan during the Korean War.

In the mid-1950s, William met the love of his life, Helene Lisak, while working at the Diamond T Company. They married on September 4, 1955, and soon settled in Naperville, where they built a home and a life filled with love and purpose. William worked as a design engineer, first with International Harvester and later with Caterpillar Tractor, where he concluded a fulfilling career.

A passionate aviation enthusiast, William was a proud member of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) and the Fox Valley Aero Club. His dedication to the EAA brought him to the renowned Oshkosh Air Show annually, where he enthusiastically volunteered for many years. A creative spirit, he devoted countless hours to crafting quarter-scale model radio-controlled airplanes, a hobby that perfectly combined his engineering acumen with his love of flight.

William's family was his greatest pride. He is survived by his three sons, James Brown, Jonathan (Susan) Brown, and Christopher (Carol) Brown; his adored grandchildren, Brittany (Matt) Hoch, Chelsea (Zach) Storc, Jonathan Brown II, and Annie-Laurie Finnerty; and his two great-grandchildren, Oliver and Elliot Hoch. He is also fondly remembered by his nieces, Diane Reuss, Karen Breitenreiter, and Christine Della Croce, and his nephew, James Brown.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Helene, in 1998; his sister, Elizabeth Samel; his brother, James Brown; and his dear friend, Jerry Ann Andersen.

William's legacy of kindness, curiosity, and unwavering love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 2, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Hultgren Funeral Home, Wheaton. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 26 N. Ellsworth St., Naperville, on Tuesday, December 3, at 10:00 a.m., followed by interment at Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Honor Flight Chicag o. He participated as one of the first Korean War veterans to receive this special tribute.

William J. Brown's life was one of quiet heroism, steadfast devotion, and boundless passion. He will be deeply missed.