Weirton officials remember former Public Works director
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WEIRTON -- Weirton officials are recalling the life of John Brown, the city's former Public Works director.
Brown died Jan. 30 at the age of 84. He was born June 19, 1934 in County Armagh, Ireland.
Mayor Harold Miller described Brown as "a pleasant Irishman."
"He was a hard worker and dedicated to the city of Weirton," Miller said.
Miller first met Brown during his first term on city council, explaining Brown would make it a point to address any concerns or requests. As a freshman member of council, Miller said he was able to learn much from Brown about the city operations, including touring several municipal facilities.
"John was always willing to do that," Miller said.
Ward 7 Councilman Terry Weigel, who had worked with Brown in the Public Works Department and later served alongside him as a city department head, noted Brown's dedication to the people and things important to him.
"John was a very dedicated man," Weigel said. "Dedicated to his wife. Dedicated to his family and dedicated to his work."
Weigel also said Brown liked to keep busy, noting he was known for his carpentry work in addition to his service to the city. He said he remembered Brown telling stories from his youth and about his time in the military.
Growing up in Ireland, Brown participated in track and field and cross country, was a champion javelin thrower and an Ulster junior pole vaulting champion while with the Armagh City Harriers. He played handball, both in Ireland and the United States.
At 15 years of age, he enlisted in the Irish Army, serving for six years.
Utilities Director Butch Mastrantoni not only called Brown a co-worker and friend, but also would often see him during Sunday church services. Mastrantoni serves as an usher, and said, even when ill, Brown would offer to assist with collecting offerings and other tasks.
"John has always been ever-ready to help any way he could," Mastrantoni said.
Brown was a member of St. Paul Roman Catholic Church, and had served on the school boards for both St. Paul School and Madonna High School.
"There's no quit in John Brown," Mastrantoni added.
Brown is survived by his wife of 60 years, Maureen, whom he met in England, along with their sons, Terence, Michael and Matthew, daughters Colleen, Christina and Erin, brother Dermot, 12 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, along with several cousins.
(Howell can be contacted at chowell@weirtondailytimes.com, and followed via Twitter @CHowellWDT)