Saratoga Springs – On January 9, 2021, Roger Kenneth Brown, just days short of his 86 ^th birthday on January 15th died of complications from a longstanding cardiac illness. He was the oldest of two sons, born to Kenneth and Marian Brown in Detroit, MI in 1935. He is survived by his brother Paul of Evanston, IL, Paul's wife Margo and their children Kristen, John, David, Stephanie, Randy, and Anne.

Roger was first married to Margery Schrock in 1957. They had one daughter Kathryn in 1963. She resides with her son Matthew, 18, in Amesbury, MA. Marge and Roger separated and divorced in the 1970's. Roger married Ellen Ozarow in 1981. They enjoyed a long and happy marriage.

After serving in the Air Force ROTC at Ohio Weslyn University where he was student body president, Roger entered the Air Force. He served in the medical service corps where he found his career path. He attended Cornell University earning a master's degree in health care administration. His professional positions included Geneva General Hospital, Geneva, NY, CVPH, Plattsburgh, NY, where he was part of a team merging two hospitals. He was CEO of Leonard Hospital in Troy, NY, and Administrator at Adirondack Tri-County Nursing Home in North Creek, NY where he directed a successful facility expansion. He was loved and respected by all the people who worked for him.

Roger grew up in Lakewood, Ohio a suburb of Cleveland. He was a student leader and exceptional athlete. He was a talented pianist. He helped pay for college by leading a popular dance band during those years.

Roger suffered a major stroke at age 64, changing the direction of the last period of his life. Unable to return to work, he became an avid reader, especially American History and a devoted New York Yankee fan. He never stopped trying to maximize his abilities.

As everyone knows who had the privilege of knowing Roger, he had an unusual gift for connecting with people. People were naturally drawn to him for his innate warmth, humor, and kindness. Many have described him as a kind and gentle soul.

In lieu of flowers please consider donation to the American Heart Association or the Nature Conservancy.

Services with military honors will be announced and celebrated at a later date to be determined.

Online remembrances may be made at burkefuneralhome.com.