Vernon G. Browne, 73; Naval Aviator, Corporate Executive

Vernon G. Browne, a former Greenwich resident, passed away on Jan. 17, 2014 with his family at his side. He was 73.

Born in Hastings, NE, Vern was an Air Force child who called many places home including Colorado Springs, Denver, Tampa and Lake Charles, LA. Mr. Browne graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1963.

After marrying in 1964, Vern and beloved wife Elise moved together to 11 duty stations throughout the world before settling in Greenwich for 27 years. During Vern's courageous battle with cancer, their strength, grace and humor never wavered. They had been looking forward to celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary on July 4th.

Proudly serving his country as a Naval aviator, Vern was awarded numerous commendations for flying missions in the North Atlantic, the Western Pacific, the South China Sea and Vietnam. Mr. Browne remained committed to the Navy community all of his life.

After his career as a Naval officer, Mr. Browne worked for many years as an executive in the flavor and fragrance industry for Norda, Inc. Additionally, he was a talented artist and a descendant of the notable Revolutionary War era leader and artist Charles Willson Peale.

In addition to being an aviation and sports car enthusiast, Mr. Browne shared his sense of adventure and love of the outdoors with his three sons Brad (of Greenwich), Jeff and Chris. All three sons became avid skiers sharing a love of the mountains.

His greatest joy was sharing time with his adored grandchildren, Brad Jr. and Stephanie Elise (both of Greenwich). In addition to his wife, sons, and grandchildren, Vern is survived by brother, Tom and sister, Susan.

Calling hours will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 22  at the Leo P. Gallagher Funeral Home, 31 Arch St., Greenwich. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 23  at St. Michael the Archangel Parish, 469 North St., Greenwich.