Roger James Brownson's Obituary
Roger Brownson, aged 82, passed away peacefully Thursday morning, June 12th. He was born September 12, 1942 in Wayland, New York to Alice Brownson and Wesley Brownson, and grew up in Lackawanna, New York.
Roger is survived by his wife of 60 years: Judith Rae Brownson, his two children: David Brownson and his wife Alison, Krista O’Rourke and her husband Shamus, his four grandchildren: Haegan, Conlan, Declan, and Wesley, nephews: Gary Cecil, Danny Cecil, niece: Brenda Watkins, and many great nieces and nephews.
Roger is preceded in death by his sister Marcia Buckley.
Roger moved to Lorain, OH at 16 years old, where he would soon meet his wife Judy. Following his graduation from Lorain High School in 1960, he attended Kent State University and was a proud Kappa Sigma member.
Roger was a central member of the Lorain, OH community. He worked as a guidance counselor at Lorain High School for 32 years. He founded the Lorain, Ohio by Photos Facebook page, which has more than 25k members. Additionally, he volunteered with the Lorain Historical Society, with the Friends of the Metroparks organization, and with the Lorain County Visitors Bureau. Roger was a founding member of the Lorain County Lunch Bunch. Roger was funny, welcoming, and open to conversation with anybody. His caring disposition influenced many students throughout his career. He is remembered for his magnetic personality and ability to make others feel included and valued.
Roger was an avid Cleveland Cavaliers fan. He held season tickets for more than 20 years. Some of his greatest joys came from traveling, and he made many great memories with his friends and family. He visited 49 states in his life, returning often to Maine, Edisto Beach, South Carolina, and National Parks throughout the country. His favorite was Glacier National Park. Roger collected pamphlets, stamps, and stickers from the places he visited. He was often recommending campgrounds, hiking trails, and restaurants from around the country. He was the original Trip Advisor.
Roger took photos wherever he went and then meticulously organized and shared them. His photos are published in various books and calendars. He was very active on Facebook and maintained friendships with countless others.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Lorain County Metroparks in Roger’s memory. Donations will go towards childrens’ outdoor education programs. Instructions for these donations can be accessed through the following link:
https://www.loraincountymetroparks.com/gifts-and-donations
Friends and family are invited to join for Roger’s services on Monday June 16th from 3:00pm-7:00pm at Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral Center at 110 Cooper Foster Park Rd, Amherst, Ohio. A sharing of memories ceremony will commence at 6:30 pm. Private burial services will be held for the family at a later date.
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