Obituary of Kenneth Brown
3RD Generation Railroader
Kenneth Allen Brown, 87, passed away peacefully into the Lord’s arms on Tuesday, November 24, 2020. Kenneth was born in Plainfield, NJ. He graduated from North Plainfield High School in 1952 and started his employment with the Central Jersey Railroad that same year. In 1956, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served three years in Germany and was honorably discharged in 1959. After leaving the Army, he returned to the Central Jersey Railroad, which became Conrail and later NJ Transit. It was there as a trainman that Kenneth met the love of his life, Elizabeth “Betty” Whalen, as she commuted to work riding his train. They married in May of 1962.
Kenneth retired in August 1997 after 45 years of service. Upon his retirement, he was honored by his employer with many accolades and a TV crew from NJ News followed him on his last day, depicting the life of a dedicated, third-generation railroader who gave so much of himself to ensure the safety of his passengers while maintaining professionalism, courtesy, and a friendly ride.
Kenneth always lived life with a smile on his face. He never had a bad word to say about anyone. He was a gentle soul — kind and loving. He loved all animals, especially his Bichon Frise, Cha Cha. Kenneth enjoyed traveling on vacations with his wife Betty. He loved cruises and was a food enthusiast. He enjoyed dining at restaurants, watching movies and shows, and seeing plays and concerts. He enjoyed life to the fullest when times were spent with friends and family.
Kenneth will be remembered for his endless stories and memories he shared of long ago, of past family members who helped shape his life, growing up during the Depression, and summers spent on his grandparents’ farm in Alabama. All these discussions were usually spent over a pot of coffee and a slice of pie, the simplicity of the life in which he shared proudly.
Kenneth was predeceased by his wife of 58 years, Betty, who passed away April 13, 2020. He was also predeceased by his parents Eugene and Wilhelmina, his beloved brother John David Thomas, and his sisters Christine Thomas, Helen Travigno, and Miriam Mikell.
Kenneth is survived by his three daughters whom he loved adoringly and their husbands: Beth and Brett Giakas of Stockton, NJ, with whom Kenneth lived; Jean and Michael Brennan of Churchville, PA; and Kendra and Robert Nestor of Newtown, PA.
Kenneth is also survived by his seven grandchildren whom he adored and doted on, attending their sporting events, recitals, and cheerleading competitions. He was very proud of their accomplishments. Grandchildren Nicholas (Brittany) and Christopher Kenneth Giakas, Amanda and Audra Brennan, Ashley (Daniel) Moore, and Erin and Megan Gallagher will always remember their grandfather and how much he loved them.
Kenneth is also survived by his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Roland and Carolyn Keane of South Plainfield, NJ; his sister-in-law Patricia Feigenbutz of Obernburg, NY; his cousin Daniel White (Betty Ann); and his two nieces Gail Zimmer (Henry) and Carol Ann Foster, whom he loved dearly.
Services are private. Donations can be made to the Kingwood Township Rescue Squad or to the Lewy Body Dementia Association in Kenneth’s name.
Kenneth’s family would like to thank the New Jersey State Police Kingwood Barracks, Kingwood Township Rescue Squad, and Hunterdon Medical Center EMTs, nurses, and doctors for their wonderful care and compassion in treating Kenneth over the years.
Private arrangements have been entrusted to the McCriskin – Gustafson Home For Funerals 2425 Plainfield Ave. South Plainfield, NJ 07080.
To send online condolences to the Brown family please visit Mrs. Brown’s webpage at www.mccriskinfuneralhome.com
