Chad Ernest Browning

Chad Ernest Browning, age 78, passed away Sunday, September 29, 2013 at St. Luke's Magic Valley Medical Center. Chad was born September 19, 1935, to Ernest P. and Mae F. Browning in Twin Falls. He lived on a farm in Murtaugh until 1945 when the family moved to Jerome. Chad graduated from Jerome High School in 1953, where he was active in athletics and student government. He attended Idaho State University and was a proud member of the men's basketball team.He served in the U.S. Army and was stationed at Fort Ord, California. He returned to Twin Falls where he worked at the Twin Falls Flour Mill before going to work for the city as Recreation Director in 1961. He was promoted to City Parks and Recreation Director in 1983. During his tenure, Thomsen, Vista Bonita and Ascension Parks were opened, as well as Sunway Soccer Complex, Oregon Trail Youth Complex, and the city swimming pool. He was instrumental in making improvements to Dierkes Lake and opening the first section of the Canyon Rim Trail. While director, the youth soccer program was started and he was part of the original skate park committee. Chad retired from his position with the city in 1996 after 35 years of service. Chad was married to Joyce Stastny and Janet Browning before marrying his current wife, Margo, in 1996. Chad had just celebrated his 78th birthday and he and Margo had recently celebrated their 17th wedding anniversary. His retirement years included travel to Nevada, California, Arizona, and Washington to visit family, and a visit to Mazatln, Mexico. Two of his favorite places to visit were Jackpot and Las Vegas, where he would often be found at a blackjack table. He looked forward to joining his 7 a.m. coffee group weekday mornings at Idaho Joe's where he, Leon, Doc, Karl, Paul, Chuck and Dennis enjoyed coffee, conversation, and discussing sports. He often commented on the great hospitality and service of the waitresses there. The family wishes to thank the caring staff at St. Luke's Magic Valley Medical Center and Doctors Desmond, Narasimhan, and Scholes for their fine care. Chad is survived by his wife Margo, sister Janice (Dick) Moon of Boise, son Lindy (Jacki) Browning of Lake Tapps, WA, daughter Kristi Hughes of Twin Falls; five grandchildren, Brianne and Connor Hughes of Menifee, CA, Casey (Julia) Browning of Orting, WA; Joshua (Frances) Goeken of O'Fallon, MO; Zachary (Michelle) Goeken of Cheyenne, WY; and great grandchildren, Cameron and Mariah Goeken, of Cheyenne. He also leaves behind a stepson, Tom (Dayane) Chapman, of Las Vegas, NV and a stepdaughter, Sheri Chapman of La Crosse, WI, seven step-grandchildren, and six step-great grandchildren. Chad was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter, Kim Moll. Chad was an ardent sports fan (football, baseball, and basketball). In his younger years, he played men's slow pitch softball. While once an Oakland Raiders fan, he most recently followed the Green Bay Packers and Aaron Rodgers. Chad was also a fan of the Atlanta Braves and Boston Red Sox. Memorial services are scheduled for 5 p.m., Thursday, October 10, 2013 at Parke's Magic Valley Funeral Home. The family would like to suggest that those who attend his memorial service, wear their favorite sports team attire. Chad shared a special bond with his dog, Schatze, who provided great comfort to him and was a loyal companion prior to her death. In lieu of flowers, Chad's family suggests that contributions be made in his memory to the Twin Falls Community Foundation to help fund the new dog park. Contributions will be accepted by TFCF, P.O. Box 5632, Twin Falls, ID 83301 or via their website www.twinfallscommunityfoundation.org (Baxter's Dog Park.)