I didn't learn about Dr. Brown's death until after the funeral. I shouldn't be surprised that I still grieve a bit. I was his patient originally when I was 14 years old, then again at 23, 36 and finally 48 through 54.

I've had a lot of Docs in my years-- Dr. Brown kept it "real." I went in and asked him if I should apply to grad school with my disability and he said "You gotta go for it!"-- his words and encouragement helped me to earn an M.A. from the U of I. He also gave me wisdom and advice that went against the grain of traditional psychiatric circles. He was also a boxer like me. What a great guy who impacted my life. Today I help other mentally ill adults attain self-sufficiency. Dr. Brown-- you will be missed but your wisdom, strenght and advice live on.

Mona and family

We are so sorry and shocked to learn just yesterday of the passing of Dr. Brown. I can remember the Brown family being friends of our family, the Rittmanics, for a very long time. Dr Brown was such a caring wonderful friend to our parents for so many years and especially through their illness. He took time to call to check in and even met us at the cancer center in Iowa City when I had to take Dad in for further tests.

A rather quiet man, but such a funny witting man. The stories Noel and Dad could tell would keep you rolling. The fishing and boating trips to Wisconsin, down the Mississippi and the Missouri river were certainly adventures. Put Noel, our Dad George, Dr. Pat, Bob, and Warren in a room and you could sit back and watch the show. What a crazy, fun bunch.

It's a sad time for the family and friends of Dr Brown but I know Mom and Dad, Dr. Pat, and Noel are swapping stories again and enjoying every minute of it.

Hugs to all

Kay, Julie and Linda Rittmanic

I'm behind in the news of Dr. Brown passing. Thought I had receive a statement in the mail for my last visit, slow getting around to bill paying. When I opened the letter I was shocked to hear that his practice was now closed due to his illness. I finally got the courage to call Alice and then I listened in disbelief to the message on the answering machine.

But I do recall Dr. Brown saying" I won't retire I'll die right here at my desk". My first thought was sadness and anxiety then the words of Dr. Brown calm me. I will miss the stories of his family and his solutions to mine. I'm a better person thanks to his years of care. Many many many years of thanks to him.

It seems I have been out of touch with the news and was not aware of Dr. Brown's passing until today when I called the office ( I knew he was ill) to find out how he was doing and what I could possibly offer in the way of food or any other kind of gift. I was shocked to hear the news and trust that your wonderful father and husband knew I thought the world of him. I saw him as a patient but we talked about everything under the sun and seemed to have the same taste in art and world views. My heart breaks with the news of his passing. HE WAS SO WONDERFUL in so many ways. I know your hearts are exponentially more broken and sympathy and condolences to you all...His memory is a blessing. "As long as I live he too shall live for he shall live in me as long as I remember him"--that's the Jewish way we say it but I trust that many people from many cultures whose lives your dear one touched would agree. As you are bereft know that his memory is alive. I join you in wishing he could still be with us. How valiant that he kept up his caring medical practice til so late in his life. How wonderful that he had so many interests. I will write by postal and tell you some stories he told me about some of you. He loved you all, you know that, and I hope and trust he knew how much he was loved and appreciated. May comfort surround you as you take the time you need to grieve. Love to you all, Rebecca Rosenbaum, here in Iowa City PS I am sorry that I did not know and therefore was not present at the funeral. Regards and comfort again, rr

To All of Noe's Family,

We were greatly saddened to hear of Dr. Brown's passing. He was such a compassionate friend and colleague to my father, Wayne Tegler. During my dad's long stay in ICU prior to his death in December, I always looked forwrd to seeing Dr. Brown in the morning. He always had words of encouragement for me and some humor for my dad. He was one of the most compassionate people I have ever met.

The world is dimmer and heaven is much brighter since the passing of Dr. Brown. I was privileged to know him, honored to work with him and blessed to call him my friend. My sympathy to Mrs. Brown, his children and grandchildren.

My condolences go out to Dr. Brown's family, friends, and Alice. He was always so polite and non-judgemental. I never left his office without his support and a hug! I'm glad I got to visit with him recently! Oh, the stories he can tell. May you all be at peace and considerate it a priviledge to have been a part of his life. He will be greatly missed. Absorb the peace and comfort that he would have wanted you to. Take care, D.F.

What a wonderful neighbor Noel was to our family. He brought us tomatoes in the summer, made us stiff drinks in the winter, came to celebrate the birth of our child. It is not so common that people in their twenties want to spend saturday night with people in their seventies, but Noel and Monica made us laugh until our sides hurt. We were sad to leave such great neighbors when we moved to NY in April, but we did get to see him again on a recent visit and he was wonderful to my grandparents who moved into our house. We will miss him!

Dr . Brown made a very tough situation for me not so tough. His kind and gentle words made all the difference . My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Thank you for sharing your dad/husband with so many.

Katie Printen Puszynski

I first met Ciaran when the Brown family moved to Manville Heights he has always been a close friend. I have always admired Noel and Mona and considered them to be very cool as parents a rare attribute indeed. Their kids had the highest tree house, the steepest hill, the most dangerous toys/weapons; explosions in their attic and not least of all they had a pet monkey! These were the fun kids in our neighborhood growing up for sure! I believe this speaks volumes about the parents. Noel had the gift of understanding and compassion. He could exact the truth from a situation and give his loving insight to people when they really needed it and couldn't quite find it themselves. As an adult I got to know Noel better and will always remember him as a hero. He helped my family during a difficult time and we will always be grateful to him for that too. And he did another thing that set him apart from the other Fathers of kids I knew growing up in Iowa City or rather I should say he didn't do Noel Brown was not judgmental, and I can spot judgmental also a rare attribute. So we say our condolences to Mona and the Brown family. We love you all and wish him a speedy journey, and peace to you all.

Dear Mona, Ciaran, Ruadhri, Seaghan, Seamus, Maire; spouses and family;

I have been Dr. Brown's patient for 22 years, and can honestly say that I would not be alive today if not for the most kind, caring, and compassionate doctor that has ever entered my life! He had the ability to "see into my soul" and understand my problems, even when I was too ill to realize what my life had become.

Dr. Brown was a wonderful physician and psychiatrist. He helped many of my patients with their psychiatric problems. It was always a delight to work with him and even more delightful to interact with him socially. He will be greatly missed.

Dr. Brown helped me through some difficult times in my life. I will miss his humor and our yearly visits. You are in my thoughts amd prayers.

Dr. Brown said many wise things to me, and told many a story that set us both laughing. But there is one thing he related to me that truly changed my perspective on life. He once said to me - after I related some sort of foul hand I believed life had dealt me, "Homo sum: humani nil a me alienum puto." (I am a human being, so nothing human is strange to me. - Terentius). He explained that he was no longer surprised by the things that happened in life - sometimes disappointed, but he knew that ANYTHING was possible and was at peace with that understanding. He encouraged me to think it over. It has become a guiding tenet in my life and I am more at peace - thanks to J.C.N. Brown, M.D.

There is much to remember and much to be thankful for as I remember Dr. "Noel" Brown and the way he shared his life with those around him.

Each of us gives gifts of ourselves to those we share life with. These are gifts that no one can take away. He taught us so much about caring, about family and about friendship. I will always cherish his smile and the twinkle in his eye when he told a story or talked about his friends, his family or most importantly, Mona. He was a friend and confidante to many.

In one of the darkest times in my life I will always cherish our conversations and his words of kindness. He always had time to listen but more importantly he took the time to care.

Though he is gone, his zest for life and the memories of time spent with him are gifts that remain with those to whom he has touched.

I am so sorry about your loss, I hope the memories help your heart heal.

I did not know your father on a personal level but I do remember your mother & father coming down the stairs of the Dublin Underground on many occasions, greeting everyone like they were the best of family friends.

My deepest condolences Dr. Brown's wife, family and friends. I was never able to meet him, as my daughter was his patient only within the past year, but I've heard nothing but wonderful things about him.

Dr. Brown was much more than just a doctor to us. He was a very gentle soul full of wisdom and kindness and laughter. We count him among our very dear friends. May he rest in peace! God Bless us all who knew him even just a little bit, for our lives have been enriched for it.

Dr. Brown was a fearless man, who searched for joy in every encounter and if he did not find it, he created the joy himself.

We will remember Noel as we recall his humour, his stories, jokes and his enthusiasm for his many interests. Those of us from Ireland who visited with Noel and Mona were overwhelmed by his hospitality and generosity. Words are inadequate to express our sadness at his passing and to convey our deep feeling for Mona's loss. May God comfort you Mona and may he help you and Ciaran, Ruadhri, Seamus, Sean and Maire to cope with Noel's absence.

We will miss his trips to Cork. It's hard to think we shall no longer hear his stories about Iowa, the Mississippi, not forgetting The Enchanted Inn.

I have only had the opportunity to make the acquaintance of Noel. I wouldn't think of myself as someone that he would recognize in passing, although I would recognize him undoubtedly. He was a kind voice of reason for me in a time when I had to humble myself and reach out for guidance. I will never forget or take for granted the advice he gave me, nor will I forget his demeanor and the extent in which I admired it. I am thankful that I crossed paths with Dr. Brown. God bless and rest in peace.

I was so sad to hear about Dr.Brown! My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I have many fond memories of your husband/father and I loved listening to his stories! As my sister Tracey said, He was with the Printens through much laughter and tears! He will be missed! Love, Lisa

Our deepest sorrow to the Brown family. Dr. Brown was a fine man all the way around. We'll have a drink and a laugh in his memory.

We were shocked and saddened by Dr.Brown's death. He was a very caring person and sincerely interested in the well being of his patients and their family. His humour and approach were wodnderful.

I knew Noel and Mona in IC along with Clancy and Brindley (mason City). When I could understand what Noel said---I enjoyed it.

Sorry for his passing, Mona---and the family.

I'm very sad to hear this news. The Brown family has always held a special place for me. My father, Bill Murray, was a good friend and is deeply affected and understands what has happened, although he is quite infirm and has difficulty speaking. I wish that Bill could tell us some more great stories of Noel!

We know Noel, my dad Jim Baxter, John Clancy and Chipper are definitely catching up on old times tonight. What fun they had! We miss them all.

Sending our heartfelt sympathies to all of you. Noel was blessed with the charm, wit and humor that so many came to love and admire. He always made you feel like he had been waiting just to see you again. He will be missed, but never forgotten.

Dr. Brown will be missed by many. He made so many people feel good and his laughter was contagious. He's in the arms of the angels now. My condolences to the family.

We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Brown. Our heartfelt sympathy to Dr. Brown's family.

Anyone can see that Noel and Mona Brown had something special going for them all these years ! Just look at how gracefully their five children have coped with the difficult spelling of all those fine Irish names ! Our best wishes to you all.

Dr Brown admitted patients to 4 North since its inception and was dedicated to the success of the unit and the care of his patients. Dr Brown first priorty was always his patients and he will be very much missed by them.

To the family of Dr. Brown,

I wanted to express my sadness for you family having lost your dear family member. For many years Dr. Brown selflessly helped my sister and made her life much better; not just as her doctor, but she and Mona were her trusted friends.

He will be missed by many.

We would like to express our deepest condolences and sorrow to Mona, Maura, Ciaran, Seamus, Rory and Sean on the loss of their wonderful husband and father.

Mona,Ciaran,Ruadhri,Seaghan,Seamus,Maire and families.

Heart felt sympathy to all of you. Wonderful memories of a man who never lost his Irishness The stories, jokes,great Cork wit and charm.A true Seanachai.

My god how well he will entertain everyone up above with his roguish smile.

We first got to know Noel and Mona when they holidayed in West Cork and more recently as guests in our B&B in Kinsale.If all our guests were like the Brown's - what a joy,we would never retire.Again our sincere condolences

Billy & Mary O Connor.Kinsale.Co Cork.Ireland.

Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis agus ni bheidh a leithead ann aris.

Dr. Brown was a wonderful doctor and I feel blessed to have known him. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Sincere sympathy to the Brown family on the loss of their Father.

Mona and family--Noel's kindness, compassion and graciousness will be long remembered and deeply missed. The stories, laughter we shared with you and Noel during adventures on bikes, dinners and get togethers are fond memories that still bring me joy. My deepest sympathy to you. Jan Ahlberg

We are sad to watch you travel onward without us. Thank you for sharing with us part of your journey. The Sheas.

Dear Brown Family,

We will dearly miss the wit, laughter and supportive advice of the sage of Northwood Drive.

Ciaran and I were best friends in High School and I was lucky enough to go on trips with the family (Boundary Waters was a highlight) and visit with Mr and Mrs Brown whenever I stopped by their house. My favorite memory was Mr and Mrs Brown taking Ciaran and I to a Kiss concert when we were in 7th grade - our very first rock concert. All Mr Brown could say when it was over was, "Well, that was interesting." He was a great father and always nice when I stopped over. He will be missed.

To The Family of Dr. Brown,

I would like for give all of you my deepest sympathies for your tremendous loss. Dr. Brown was a very kind and warm spirited man. I've had the pleasure of knowing him through my mother, who was his patient for many years. What I remember the most about him is his great smile, his kind heart and that he would always take the time to stop, shake your hand and say hello.

Please know that he will be greatly missed. His committment to the well being of our community is a invaluable gift that will forever be cherished.

To the family of Dr. Brown:

Joe and I would like to express our sincere sympathy for the loss of your loved one. I was a patient of his for 30 years or more, and I also feel a great loss not only was he my doctor but a special friend. I went through some difficult times and he was always there for me, except for one time he was on vacation and I was put under another doctor's care and bfore I could leave the hospital my husband, father, and mother had to tear the carpet out of our bedroom. He never forgot that and would always remind me of it and even now I know you are up there laughing about it, but hell no we will not do that again. We shared a lot of laughs. No one can fill your shoes as a husband, father and doctor. I heard a saying about the dates that are put on someones' tombstone and the dash that is between them. It is not the dates that mean so much but the dash and this reflects how you lived your life, and you lived your life to the fullest. You were the greatest! I will miss you as well as your family will miss you. Again our sympathy to the family!

Love, Joe and Mary

Sad as it is and it is sad indeed, I know Chipper will be glad to see you. And god help heaven with those two Irishmen together again...

Dear Mona and family,

Jenny and I and the whole Printen family send you our deepest condolences on Noel's passing. Seems it wasn't all that long ago that we were car-pooling Shamus,Sean Lisa, and Tracey to Montessori School. I remember Noel's first day as an intern at Mercy Hospital in Chicago where I worked with him when I was a medical student at Loyola. We all marvelled at his wealth of stories and how his manner combined with a good measure of common sense made taking care of patients understandable and a whole lot more fun. I was fortunate enough to be able to pick up the friendship some five or six years later when I came on staff at the U of I. It got better when I moved over to Mercy in Iowa City and got to hear those great stories over coffee every morning. Jenny and I have nothing but fond memories of our times together with you and Noel. Our part of the world was certainly a better place because of Noel.He had such a wonderful, caring spirit and he will be sorely missed by so many of us. Love, Ken and Jenny

My condolences to all of the Brown family. Dr. Brown helped our family laugh through some really tough times, but was also there for the happier events--he was one of my first visitors at the hospital after the birth of my oldest daughter. He had a way of making everyone he met feel special. I know your family will be your greatest strength through this. XOXO

We are sorry about your loss, we will forever miss Nole, the sweetest man we have met.

We will miss your smile and laugh and especially your stories.

First met Dr. Brown in the Fall of 1972. He had examined me on the second or third floor in the afternoon at Mercy Hospital.That evening I had a crisis psyche event and was tansported to UI. I never saw him again. I could tell from the only meeting we had that I could trust him.

May the road rise up to meet you. My condolences.

John McAndrew

I was, as he told me many times, his first Private patient. I met him when I was 18 yrs. old, and was his patient for 30 years. I suffer from Clinical Depression and Dr. Brown was the only person who could make me laugh at my lowest lows. I can honestly say that Dr. Brown saved my life, and for that I will be forever grateful. He was a wonderful Doctor and a very Kind man.

Over the years I meet many members of your family, Mona, and I am so sorry for the loss to you and your family. I know he will be sorely missed by all. He spoke of you, your children and much anticipated Grandchildren many times.You have my deepest condolences.

His humor and compassion are what I loved the most about him. He once told me "You will never read in the newspaper that I have retired from work, you'll see my obituary first!" we both had a good laugh.... and he turned out to be right. I will remember him always with a fondness I had for him, the only Doctor I ever had that I always truly Liked. God Bless...the sound of laughter in Heaven must have risen a few decibels, by now, because of Him!!