In Memory

Hal Brown (Teacher)

Hal Brown (Teacher)

Harold (Hal) Chandler Brown, known to his friends as Charlie, passed away on March 24, 2021 in Woodland. Hal was born in Modesto on February 2, 1928 to Thelma and Dewey Brown. He grew up in Modesto before leaving to attended San Jose State College, where he received his teaching credential. While there, he met his future bride, Eleanor Golob. They planned to marry in December 1950, but the U.S. Army had different plans for Hal. He received his draft notice in September prompting a hastily scheduled wedding on September 22, 1950; two weeks later he was sent to Fort Ord. He served 18 months in Korea.

He started his career at Hilmar High School teaching English. After stints at Campbell and Orland high schools, he landed a teaching job at Woodland High School in 1957 where he was head of the English department. He was very involved with the California Teachers Association and spent many years as an accreditation evaluator of colleges. While working, he took advantage of school vacations for family camping and road trips. Later he went back to school at Sacramento State College at night to earn his master's degree in counseling. He was the guidance counselor for a generation of Woodland High School students, including his future son-in-law, before retiring in 1993.

He loved his 28 years of retirement, which were rich and fulfilling but none more joyful than watching his granddaughter grow up. He loved to fish, he ran marathons, he took up yoga. He and Ellie traveled the world visiting the Middle East, Asia and Europe. Hal was passionate about tennis and attended all four major tournaments. He played tennis at the Woodland city courts every week until the age of 93; however, he was rarely the victor in a game of tennis against Ellie.

He served the community in many ways, volunteering as an ombudsman for the retirement homes in Woodland. He volunteered at the Food Closet for many years and delivered Meals on Wheels until he was 90. He was a long standing member of the Old Farts Club of retired teachers. He loved to read and was a talented writer of haiku.

He is survived by his wife, Ellie, of 70 years; and daughters, Lane Giguiere and husband John, and Kim Brown; and his beloved granddaughter, Sofie. He was predeceased by his sister, Beverly. Those who wish to honor Hal's memory may make a donation to Meals on Wheels, the Woodland Food Closet or their favorite charity.