Thomas William Brown

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Thomas William Brown of Edson, Alberta on April 16, 2023 at the age of 87.  He was surrounded by family and plenty of love when he said his final goodbyes.  

Tom was born on March 30, 1936 in Calgary, Alberta to Joe and Thelma Brown.  He grew up in Royalties, Alberta but left at the young age of 16 when he joined the Royal Canadian Navy. Tom was posted to Halifax, Nova Scotia where he met and married his beautiful wife of 62 years, Barb.  Shortly thereafter, Tom was transferred to the West Coast.  The Navy took Tom around the world on peace keeping missions. His last major cruise departed from Esquimalt, BC to ports in Hawaii, Guam, Philippines, Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, and then back to Esquimalt. Tom left the Navy after 7 years. He and Barb then moved to Drumheller and eventually settled in Edson.  Tom started his successful business, Tom’s Welding, which evolved into Welco Oilfield Services.  Over the years Tom employed hundreds of people and was a well respected businessman.  Tom also had several other business ventures, including real estate and other oil and gas investments.  Tom loved the outdoors; he fished the creeks and rivers around the Edson area and would also head to the West Coast every year to salmon fish.  Tom loved to spend time at the family cabin, where there were always dirt bikes, quads, skidoos and canoes.  Tom was an avid sports fan and loved his Oilers, he rarely missed a game. He also loved following his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren’s sports and activities.  Tom was always physically active; he played badminton in his earlier years, downhill & cross-country skied, played hockey into his 70’s and golfed until 86.  Tom was a generous man, he volunteered with the Kinsmen Club of Edson for many years and regularly donated to charities and causes meaningful to him.  Tom loved life and being surrounded by friends and family.  His desire to have loved ones around for barbecues, beers, pizza parties and morning coffee at A&W will be deeply missed.  

Left to mourn his loss are his children, Debbie Koger (Ken), Vicki Melhus (Ron), Wayne Brown (Mary) and Elaine Brown; his grandchildren, Kerri Quinlan (Robert), Kaylie DeYoung (Brad), Thom Koger, Kris Melhus (Tara), Kirsten Melhus, Evan Cardinal, Taylor Sellar (Kyle), Jace Benvie and sister-in-law Karen Davis. 

 Tom was predeceased by his wife, Barbara, his parents, Joe and Thelma Brown, oldest brother Harry Brown (Lorraine), sister Patricia Brown (Enid), twin brother James Brown (Marion) and nephew Dale Davis.  Tom will also be deeply missed by his 12 great grandchildren, nieces and nephews and many close friends.  

The family would like to express their sincere and heartfelt thanks to Dr. Saincher and all the immensely caring staff at the Edson hospital. While in hospital Tom mentioned several times, “This is a good place”.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in support of the Edson Healthcare Center Auxiliary.  

Tom’s ashes will be interred and laid to rest in Calgary alongside Barb and other family members.  

Thanks to everyone who loved Tom and for your prayers and support.