John E. Brower, a lifelong resident of the Mid-Hudson Valley, peacefully passed away in the early hours of May 10, 2025, at Ferncliff Nursing Home. Born on May 3, 1951, at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, he was the son of the late Frank and Margaret (Shaw) Brower. He was 74.
John’s formative years were spent at Pine Plains Central School, where his athletic prowess shone in football, earning him many accolades, as well as in other sports, including baseball and basketball. After graduating in 1969, he continued his education at Dutchess Community College before earning a bachelor’s degree in Recreational Therapy from SUNY Brockport. John embodied the phrase “team player.” He was the first to offer help with anything and always brought ten times more than he committed to—plus extra chairs, extra red cups, and extra _____ (fill in the blank!).
A true passion for skiing characterized much of John’s life. He dedicated over 50 years to ski patrol, beginning his service in 1976 at White Birches for cross-country skiing. By 1988, he achieved dual certification in alpine skiing and became an OEC instructor. His commitment took him from White Birches to Cortina Mountain and finally to Butternut in Great Barrington, MA. Notably, John served as ski patrol for the Olympic Ski Jumps at Lake Placid in 1980 and again at the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics. These experiences ignited a lifelong passion for collecting Olympic pins from every Winter Game.
For more than 30 years, John made a meaningful impact at Abilities First in Poughkeepsie, NY, supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. His dedication extended to the Special Olympics, where he served as a coach and trainer for over 32 years, culminating in a memorable volunteer experience at the 1997 Special Olympics Winter Games in Toronto, Canada.
Beyond his professional and volunteer pursuits, John was an avid sports enthusiast, particularly drawn to NASCAR racing. For three decades, his front-row, park-and-view space on turn one at Watkins Glen was a cherished annual tradition shared with loved ones.
John is remembered by his wife, Julia Brower; his daughters, Shannon (Jason) Coll and Katherine Brower; and his grandchildren, Cody Smith and Keira Coll, who held a special place in his heart. He is also survived by his brother, Frank C. Brower Jr.; his sister, Sheila (James) Jamieson; and his nephew, Carl Jamieson.
Following John’s wishes, no formal services will be held. Instead, a celebration of his life will be announced when arrangements are complete. He will be privately interred in the family plot at Evergreen Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Memorial donations in John’s honor may be directed to Ski Butternut Ski Patrol, 380 State Road, Great Barrington, MA 01230, or to the Milan Rescue Squad, 900 Route 199, Milan, NY 12571.
