Obituary of Gerald Rowe Brownrigg

Jerry passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on May 20th, 2025 at the age of 93.

Jerry was born to Joseph and Blanche Brownrigg in Minneapolis on September 21st, 1931. He attended Christ the King Elementary School, Nazareth Hall Seminary, and St. Thomas College, where he graduated in 1954 with an English and Philosophy degree. Jerry served stateside during the Korean War where he learned Morse Code. In 1956, he married Patricia Lang and in their over 64 years together, they had 8 children and many wonderful adventures as a family. After working for the family business, Brownrigg & Sons, Jerry was a salesman and bookkeeper for many years. Jerry loved to read and was an avid birdwatcher. In his later years, Jerry enjoyed traveling, poker, golf, and collecting books. He was most proud of his role as grandpa. He stayed active volunteering at Seward Montessori, spending time at Camp Van Vac, the Boundary Waters, and going to the State Fair every year!

Preceded in death by his wife and dance partner Pat, son Brendan and his siblings Gene, Jack and Pat. Survived by his children, Steve, Margaret (Tom), Mary (John), Monica (Pat), Katie (Jim), Jerry (Carrie) and Joanne (Tom) Also, Cindy DeHahn (Annette), Sue Connolly and Michael Connolly, grandchildren Erin (Jackie), Lucy (Manton), Fred (Katie), Kathleen, Mary (Josh), Bill, Bernadette, Jerry, Margaret, Tommy and Bridget as well as great grandchildren Violet and Emmy.

Jerry’s family would like to thank the staff at Johanna Shores for taking such good care of him and our mom for the last 9 years.

A celebration of Jerry’s life will take place on Saturday, August 23rd,1-4pm at Cremation Society of MN, 4343 Nicollet Ave., Mpls. The service will start at 1:30 pm followed by a reception. Bring your stories and laughter to share!

 In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to TPT-Twin Cities PBS 172 E. 4th St. St. Paul, MN 55101 Attn: John Zimmerman or Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary @ friendsofeloisebutler.org