Lawrence Alva Brown

Lawrence “Alva” Brown, 86, of Pekin, Indiana, passed away peacefully at Traditions at Hunter Station on April 14, 2026.

Lawrence was born on June 7, 1939, in Pekin, Indiana, to Merle and Ruth (Crim) Brown. He was a proud graduate of Pekin High School, Class of 1957. Following his education, Lawrence honorably served in the Army National Guard.

Lawrence dedicated over 20 years of his career to Vulcan-Hart Corporation. In 1978, he fulfilled his entrepreneurial spirit by purchasing Louisville Pattern and Engineering Company, Inc., which he successfully owned and operated for more than 40 years. A skilled innovator, he held several patents for his inventions and was a member of the Society of Plastics Engineers.

On June 2, 1962, Lawrence married the love of his life, Marilyn (Watterson) Brown. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and service, including the construction of two dream homes for his beloved wife. Lawrence was a lifelong member of Big Springs Church of Christ in Pekin, where he later served as an Elder. He also dedicated over 30 years as a volunteer and board member of Spring Mill Bible Camp, generously giving his time and talents through volunteer work.

Lawrence had a passion for woodworking, often crafting items for others, as well as a love for inventing, gardening, and spending cherished time with his wife, children, and grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, David Brown.

Lawrence is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn Brown; his daughters, Teresa Harwood, Becky (Rick) Pyke, and Cathy (Brad) Baker; his sister, Susan (Don) Wetzel; his brother, Phillip Brown; and his grandchildren, Tyler (Molly Raker) Clements, Emma Pyke, and Elly Pyke.

Visitation will be held on Monday, 4/20/2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Big Springs Church of Christ, 8029 Big Springs Church Road, Pekin, Indiana 47165. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the church, with burial in the Big Springs Church of Christ Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Big Springs Church of Christ Cemetery, in care of Jerry Mull, 8625 South Big Springs Road, Pekin, Indiana 47165.

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