Fern Margaret Marie Brown

With a journey that spanned nearly a century of plenty and want, war and peace, laughter and grief, Fern Brown never lost sight of what mattered most through the ups and downs of life. She was a constant source of strength and encouragement, no matter the circumstances. Devoted to her family and friends, Fern considered herself blessed beyond measure to be surrounded by so many loved ones. Her heart for caring for those around her made an impact on so many, and she truly made the world a better place. Deeply loved, Fern will be forever missed and remembered.

The late 1920s were certainly some exciting years to be living in the United States. The Roaring 20s, as the decade is known, brought vivid innovation to the nation. Motion pictures in color and sound graced the silver screen, and ballroom dancing was wildly popular as well. It was during this influential time that Fred and Adelean “Ada” (Reich) Rodiger of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, were awaiting the arrival of their second child. On June 27 of 1927, they were happy to announce the arrival of their daughter, Fern Margaret. Fern was raised in the family home alongside her three brothers, Robert, Paul, and Donald.

Throughout her childhood, Fern was a typical girl of her generation in many ways. She grew up playing with the boys in the neighborhood and had fond memories of throwing rocks off the shore near the lighthouse. Fern enjoyed scrapbooking, baking, making icecream, and picking wildflowers. She was extremely active and loved horseback riding, swimming, skating, playing hockey, riding her bike, and fishing with her brothers and father. From a young age, Fern possessed a deep love and talent for music. The Rodiger family maintained their own flourishing vegetable garden. They often attended holiday parades and fireworks to watch Fern’s father march with the WWI Drum Bugle Corps. The family also sometimes traveled to Detroit to visit their family there.

Growing up, Fern attended local schools, including a small country school and then Sault Ste Marie schools. While in high school, she was involved in the choir and the swing band. They were invited to sing in Atlantic City and even at the White House in Washington D.C.! Fern celebrated her graduation in 1946, then went on to pursue further education for one year at Lake Superior State College. The foundation of the faith that would serve her well throughout her entire life was built at Easterday Ave Gospel Hall in Sault Ste Marie. Fern worked for a tile company for about one year, eager to see what the future held.

Not to be forgotten was the moment when Fern met the man who would forever hold the key to her heart. His name was Cleve Brown, and the two first connected at church. Fern and Cleve began dating, and though he would have to go off to work in the western Upper Peninsula, they spent time together on the weekends. Over the next seven months, they quickly fell head over heels in love. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Fern and Cleve were married on October 29, 1962, making sure to hold their ceremony on a Monday so it wouldn’t interfere with hunting season. The happy newlyweds then enjoyed a honeymoon to Florida.

Of all the things Fern loved in life, there was nothing she cherished more than her family. Over the years, she and Cleve were overjoyed to welcome their three children, Susan, Jennifer, and Rodney, into their hearts and home. Fern thrived in her role as a mother, and her kids were her greatest pride and joy. The Brown family lived in Manchester, Tennessee, then Crystal Falls for a time before settling down in Sault Ste Marie, where Fern and Cleve raised their children. Later in life, Fern was thrilled to become a grandmother to her beloved grandsons, Caleb and Jakob. She never missed a chance to hold her loved ones close.

In her free time, Fern was an avid reader and especially enjoyed reading her Bible and hymn books. Singing remained a lifelong passion, and she loved using her gifts to sing in church. Fern eventually learned to play the mandolin as well. She baked bread and cookies often. In their retirement years, Fern and Cleve took a couple of trips to Florida. They also made a memorable visit to Ireland, England, and Germany, and they enjoyed many wonderful sailing and boat trips in the St. Mary’s River and Lake Huron.

All who knew and loved Fern Brown will certainly agree that she was a radiant presence, beautiful from the inside out. She was always willing to go above and beyond to serve others, and she found boundless joy in the simple pleasures life had to offer. A dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother, Fern’s family was her greatest treasure. Her faith was unshakeable, and she was a shining role model of kindness and compassion for all those who looked up to her for guidance. Although she is already so dearly missed, Fern leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that her loved ones will forever hold near and dear to their hearts.

Fern Margaret Marie Brown, age 98 of Grand Rapids, and formerly of Sault Ste Marie, passed away December 4, 2025. She was preceded in death by her husband, Cleve; grandson Caleb Brown; and brothers Robert and Paul Rodiger. Fern is survived by her children: Susan & James Zomerhuis, Jennifer Brown, and Rodney & Christine Brown; grandson Jakob Brown; and brother Donald (Sandy) Rodiger. A graveside service will be held in the Spring at Riverside Cemetery in Sault Ste Marie, MI. Contributions in her memory may be made to Alzheimer's Association – Greater Michigan Chapter.