TOPEKA, Kan. – Harlan Edward Brown Jr., 73, peacefully passed away surrounded by loved ones Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2026, at Midland Hospice House, Topeka, Kan. Harlan Edward Brown Jr. was born Feb. 26, 1953, in Topeka, the son of Harlan Edward Brown Sr. and Lois Jean Arnett (Brown).
Ed grew up in Osage City, Kan., and graduated from Osage City High School in 1971.
He was joined in marriage to Phyllis Ann Jones, July 9, 1983, in Osage City.
He enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served in Rota, Spain, as an aviation structural mechanic airman from July 7, 1971 to July 3, 1975, when he was honorably discharged, receiving a Good Conduct Award for faithful, zealous and obedient service.
Anyone who knew Ed knew that he didn’t shy away from mischief, and he lived his life the way he wanted to live it. He worked hard to provide for his family but never missed an opportunity to have fun.
Ed was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and brother, Chester “Chet” Brown.
Ed will be forever remembered by his children, Steven and wife, Maddison, Andy and Lois; grandchildren, Owen, Mariah (Noah), Rosa, Ana, Nolan, Charlotte, Heather, Sophia and Phyllis; brother-in-law, Don Jones; stepsiblings, Robert and Jodi; Aunt Shirley; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
A celebration of life service will be 1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 29, at VanArsdale Funeral Chapel, Osage City. Burial will follow service at Osage City Cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be made to Disabled American Veterans, sent in care of VanArsdale Funeral Chapel, 107 W. Sixth St., Osage City, KS 66523. Condolences can be left at vanarsdalefs.com.
