William Cole Brown Sr. 'Brownie' PORTLAND -- William Cole Brown Sr. passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2011, at Maine Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. Bill was born in Buckfield on July 31, 1931, the son of Maynard O.W. Brown and Abbie E. (Gordan) Brown. His family eventually moved to Portland. Bill was very proud of his time spent in the U.S. Army as a cook during the time of the Korean War. He often spoke of the famous apple pies he would make while serving his country. Bill was an excellent cook and enjoyed making desserts for the holidays. Bill met his sweetheart, Ruth Edith Tinker, after his service in the Army and they had five children together during their 54 year marriage. The couple loved the outdoors and especially enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping together. Bill retired from the City of Portland's Public Works Department, where he worked for many years. Well-known for his storytelling abilities, Bill loved to talk about his adventures as a boy and in every other aspect of his life. He also loved to talk about the joys of being a father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Bill also often spoke of visiting his friends at the Amvets Post 25 in Portland, where he had been a member for many years. Bill was predeceased by his wife Ruth; brother Maynard Brown and sister Sylvia Brown. He is survived by his children, Bonnie Godin and husband Gary of Hollis, Vicki Quattrucci and husband Jerry of North Waterboro, William Brown Jr. and wife Kathleen of Buxton, Richard Brown of Portland, and Wayne Brown of California. He is also survived by his brother Howard Brown of Standish, his sister Beverly Hanson of Florida and Maine; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and his beloved kitty cat Maega. Visiting hours will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 29, 2011, at Independent Death Care of Maine, 660 Brighton Ave., Portland, followed by a memorial service with military honors at 1 p.m. Burial will be in the spring. To offer words of condolence, sign a guest book and share memories, go to the obituary page at www.independentdeathcare.com. William Cole Brown Sr.