Bradley John Brown, 67, passed away June 26, 2023. The son of John Pershing and Evelyn J. Brown, he was born January 4th, 1956 in Manhattan, Kansas. He grew up in Manhattan graduating from Manhattan High in 1974. A natural athlete he competed and won at state for tennis and was an avid basketball player and swimmer. He attended Manhattan Area Vocational-Technical School in the electric and power distribution program in 1975 and then received his associate of applied science degree from Brown Mackie College in 1989. Additionally he had a deep faith and was ordained as a minister in 2014. Brad also was a freemason and member of the Grand Lodge of Kansas A.M. & F.M.
Brad spent his career working as a contractor and had a great proficiency for many technical skills. However, his greatest love was music. From an early age he loved writing and playing music especially in the company of his friends. He was a member of numerous bands throughout his life and went by his stage name of “Hank Diamond.” At the time of his death, he was the bass player for The Riders, as well as a member of Crosswinds band.
He was known to his family as the life of the party and was always ready to entertain or crack a joke. He was kind, humble, and always willing to help.
Brad is preceded in death by his parents, John and Evelyn Brown, and his sister, Cathy (Brown) Lykens. He is survived by his brother Chris Brown of Manhattan, KS, nephew Clint Brown of Manhattan, KS, niece Emily (Lykens) Lane of Overland Park, KS, and nephew Andrew Lykens of Reno, NV, as well as dozens of beloved cousins.
A celebration of life in his memory will be held Saturday, July 8th from 2-4 p.m. at RC McGraws, 2317 Tuttle Creek Blvd., Manhattan, KS 66502.
Memorial contributions to assist with funeral expenses can be sent to YML Funeral Home, attn: Chris Brown, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.