Keith Brown, longtime president of the Chicago Lions, died Wednesday afternoon after a long illness. 

In an announcement to clubmembers, Bob MacArthur said: " A very sad day, a great Chicago Lion and a great friend."

Keith had served as President until this past August when he stepped down. He was instrumental in realigning the Lions when he first became involved as part of the building committee in 2005.  At this time the Lions had assets in both the School Street Clubhouse and the North Park Tap.  He spearheaded the group to consolidate and sell both using the proceeds to purchase an income producing six flat building on Chicago’s Northwest side.  The rental units provide a steady income for the Lions as well as providing lodging for newly transplanted players to get their feet on the ground upon first arriving in Chicago.

Keith was also the leader in securing the present playing pitch and clubhouse at our Lions for Hope Field in conjunction with The Hope Academy.  His work with Hope Academy was monumental.  I will be submitting a proposal to the Lions Executive Committee to rename the grounds on Roosevelt Avenue to “Keith Brown Hope Memorial Field”. 
Wake and visitation:

Wake will be held Friday, 10/21/11, at Cumberland Chapels, 8300 West Lawrence Avenue (at Cumberland) from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Funeral Mass:
Funeral Mass will be Saturday, 10/22 at St. Hilary Catholic Church, 5601 North California Avenue (at Bryn Mawr) at 10:00 a.m. 

Cemetery Service:
After mass, there will be a procession to All Saints Cemetery, 700 North River Road, Des Plaines (North of Golf Rd.) 

Luncheon to follow at:
Funeral luncheon will be at Biaggio's, 4242 North Central Avenue, Chicago.