Jacob "Jake" Dean Brown

Jacob "Jake" Dean Brown, 82, of Walla Walla, Washington, passed away on January 9, 2025. He was born on September 23, 1942, in Rolla, Missouri, to the late Dean and Lois Brown. Jake lived a full and meaningful life, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and an unwavering love for his family.

Jake's family was his greatest joy. He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Phyllis Brown; his son, Jim; his daughter-in-law, Angie; his granddaughter, Kaylee; and his grandson-in-law, Alex. He is also remembered fondly by his brothers, Larry Brown, Jack Gaddy, and Jerry Gaddy, with whom he shared many cherished memories.

One of Jake's most memorable life stories was the time he was in a car accident on Route 66 in his beloved 1957 Chevrolet, reaching speeds of over 100 mph. This thrilling experience became one of his favorite stories, shared with anyone who would listen. After the accident, Jake spent six months in the hospital, and it was during this time that he moved to Walla Walla to recover, starting a new chapter in his life.

Jake graduated from Walla Walla High School in 1960 and later earned a degree in mechanical engineering from Oregon Technical Institute. In 1967, he took a leap of faith and started his own business, Quality Petroleum Products, acquiring his first service station on Main Street, along with two trucks and a bulk plant. Over the years, Jake expanded his business into a fleet of trucks and multiple stations, even extending into Oregon. In 1995, Jake was a part of the National Marketer Advisory Council Delegates for Quality Petroleum Products, Inc. His entrepreneurial spirit, paired with his commitment to excellence, allowed him to build a successful career that spanned decades and continues to thrive today.

Jake was an active member of several local organizations, including the Walla Walla Wagon Wheelers, the Elk Lodge 287, where he was a lifetime member and officer, and the Waitsburg Gun Club. In his younger years, Jake had a deep passion for drag racing, fishing, hunting, and prairie dog shooting in Montana, where he created many lasting memories with friends and family. Jake also loved working alongside his son in the family business and attending his granddaughter's softball games and horse events.

Jake's work ethic, kindness, and dedication to his family will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of integrity, passion, and devotion to his loved ones will remain in their hearts for generations to come.

Jake's funeral service will be held on Friday, January 17, 2025, at 9:30 AM at the Chapel of the Herring Funeral Home in Walla Walla, with interment to follow at Mountain View Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Washington Elks Therapy Program for Children through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W Alder St, Walla Walla WA 99362. Friends and family are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.herringgroseclose.com.

Jake's memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.