Lynn Albert Brown passed away on December 2nd, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, hard work and a passion for conservation.  Born on April 14, 1940, in Buffalo, Wyoming, Lynn was the beloved son of Albert 'Buster' and Margaret 'Dorothy' (Waegle) Brown.  His childhood was filled with adventures in the great outdoors, hunting and fishing in the picturesque surroundings of Atlantic City, WY, where the family cabin remains a cherished landmark.

In 1960, Lynn married his first wife, Phyllis, and together they welcomed four children into the world, Randy, Julie, Kevin and Shane.  Lynn's academic journey was marked by excellence; he earned both his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Civil Engineering from the University of Wyoming in Laramie.  Graduating at the top of his class in engineering, and second overall in the university, Lynn's academic achievements were a testament to his intellect and dedication.

Lynn's professional career began as a Forest Ranger in Wyoming, where he nurtured his love for the environment and conservation.  In 1967, he transitioned to the Soil Conservation Service, a move that set the stage for an illustrious career.  Recognized for his potential, Lynn was selected from over 10,000 applicants to pursue a Master's degree in Public Administration at Harvard University, fully funded by a government scholarship.  This prestigious opportunity further honed his skills and prepared him for greater responsibilities.

Upon completing his studies at Harvard, Lynn dedicated the majority of his career to the Natural Resources Conservation Service.  His career was characterized by a series of relocations, each move marking a step up in his professional journey.  Lynn lived in various parts of the country, including Needham, MA; Vienna, VA; Lexington, KY; Raleigh, NC; and Spokane, WA.  His work in conservation was driven by a deep sense of pride and commitment to preserving the vital resources essential to farmers and ranchers.

In 1979, Lynn achieved a significant milestone in his career when he was appointed as the State Conservationist in Washington.  Notably, he was one of the youngest individuals ever to hold this position, a reflection of his exceptional capabilities and leadership.  His contributions to conservation in Washington were so impactful that the Washington Conservation District (WACD) named the Lynn Brown Plant Materials Center in Bow, WA, in his honor.  This tribute stands as a testament to his tireless efforts and enduring legacy in the field of conservation.

Lynn Albert Brown's life was a remarkable journey of personal and professional achievements.  His commitment to conservation, his academic excellence, and his dedication to his family and community will be remembered and celebrated by all who had the privilege of knowing him.  Lynn's legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the lasting impact of his work in preserving our natural resources.

In 1984, he married the love of his life, Linda Arentzen, from Sedro-Woolley, WA.  Lynn and Linda spent many, many days at the family cabin in Wyoming, camping, riding horses and other adventures.  They lived in Spokane until Lynn retired in 1998 when they moved to Ellensburg, WA.  His first undertaking in Ellensburg was to build a 7500 square foot barn with an apartment and shop, followed by their current home.  This was in addition to building a flood irrigation system for a 50-acre hay farm.  He also spent countless hours hunting and fishing, working on projects, rebuilding antique clocks, working on guns, farming, cowboying in Wyoming rounding up cattle.  He was a pilot and took many trips in his Cessna 182.

Lynn was known by all for getting things done and done right.  In addition to building his retirement home, shop and barn, he previously built a house in Spokane with the help of his father and family.  He helped on numerous other building and remodel projects for friends and family.  He also built a large addition to the cabin in Atlantic City, WY.  During trips to see family, it normally focused on being helpful on a house project, something we all deeply appreciate.

Lynn is survived by his wife, Linda; daughters Julie Brown, Janet Arentzen and Shelly Pallies; son, Shane Brown; grandchildren, Samantha, Tory, Josh, Ana and Jeremy; great grandchildren, Odin and Iris.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert 'Buster' Taylor Brown and Margaret 'Dorothy' Brown; sons, Randall Lynn Brown and Kevin Taylor Brown; granddaughter, Elizabeth Ann Hein.

A Graveside Service will be held at 1:00, Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at Union Cemetery, Sedro-Woolley, where friends and family will gather to honor his memory and legacy.  The Washington Conservation Society has set up a Lynn Brown Memorial Scholarship Fund and the family kindly requests that if you wish to donate, please mail donations to The Washington Conservation Society, 16564 Bradley Road, Bow, WA  98232 (http://www.waconservationsociety.org/home.html) or another conservation organization of your choice, reflecting Lynn's lifelong dedication to preserving our natural environment.  Please share your memories of Lynn and sign the online guest register.