Robert G. "Bob" Brown

Robert G. “Bob” Brown passed away in his Lanier Village Estates apartment, in Gainesville GA, on Friday, August 19, 2016 following an extended illness. Bob was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and grew up in Detroit MI, worked in Cleveland OH, and retired in Jensen Beach FL.  At the University of Michigan (1947), Bob met and married Virginia “Ginnie” Van Kleek. The couple enjoyed 68 years together, and raised four wonderful children.

Bob’s education includes: Cooley High School (Detroit MI), Lawrence Institute of Technology (Detroit MI), Clemson University SC, University of Tulsa OK, B.S. in Mechanical-Industrial Engineering from University of Michigan (Ann Arbor MI) and Master of Automotive Engineering from Chrysler Institute (Highland Park MI).  Bob was a WWII - Pacific Theater (NCO, US Army Corps of Engineers) – veteran (1943-46). He attained the rank of Tech Sergeant and earned two Battle Stars.

At Chrysler Corp, Bob was a Project Engineer in the Engine Development Department (1947-52). At Eaton Corp (1952-1984), Bob led the invention and development of the automobile airbag.

Bob finished his career with Eaton as Executive Vice President of Engineering and Corporate Development. Bob went on to found the Cleveland Advanced Manufacturing Program (CAMP), a regional consulting, not-for-profit, economic development organization.

Bob served as Treasurer of the Society of Automotive Engineers, and served on the Boards of Directors of eight different corporations.

While retired in Florida, Bob presided over the rebuilding of their church, Hope Lutheran (in Port St Lucie), after it had burned to the ground.

Bob is preceded by his loving wife of 68 years, Ginnie Brown (2015) and his brother, Don Brown (2010).

Surviving loved ones include: four children: Timothy Brown, Deborah Brown Atsberger, Teresa Brown (Jim Schwarz), Cynthia Schneider (Kirt); six grandchildren: Matthew Brown (Sarah), Michael Brown (Jessica), Rebecca Atsberger Koch (Brian), Stefenie Atsberger McDonald (Patrick), Alyssa Schneider Swinehart (Ryan), Summer  Schneider; two great-grandchildren: Brayden and Blake Koch.

Services will be held on Wednesday August 24, 2016 at 1:30 P.M. from the Chapel of Lanier Village Estates.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Hope Lutheran Church in Port St. Lucie

1750 Lennard Rd. Port St. Lucie FL 34952

Online condolences may be made at www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com

Memorial Park North Riverside Chapel 770-297-6200

989 Riverside Dr. Gainesville, Ga. 30501