William “Bill” Brown

William “Bill” Eckman Brown, 88, of Ryland Heights and Fort Mitchell, KY, passed away peacefully on November 25, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Edgewood, KY. He was born on October 30, 1937, in Cincinnati, OH, to the late Dwight and Alice Brown.

Bill’s life was defined by service, devotion, and an entrepreneurial spirit. He was raised in Cincinnati and attended Clifton Grade School, Hughes High School, and the University of Cincinnati, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics. At just 16, he began volunteering with the Ryland Heights Fire Department and later at Ft. Mitchell Fire Department earning the rank of Captain at both—a calling that remained close to his heart throughout his life.

In 1967, Bill met the love of his life, Pamela Brandfass, at Dubois Chemicals, where he worked as a salesman. Their first date—at a company dance—sparked a lifelong partnership, and the two married on May 3, 1969. Bill continued his work in fire safety at several companies before deciding to build something of his own. In 1975, while Pamela was pregnant with their first child, he founded WEBCO Fire Equipment Company, a business he proudly led with his wife for 46 years until his retirement in 2018.

Bill’s professional achievements were matched by the joy he found in everyday life. He enjoyed playing golf at Ryland Lakes Country Club where his family has been long standing members for over 100 years. He loved tinkering with antique cars and fire trucks, and tending to his extensive model trains—especially the garden railway at his Fort Mitchell home. He was an active member in many organizations including being a Board Member to the Cincinnati Fire Museum, Box 13 Associates, Miles Greenwood Historical Fire Apparatus Society, the Greater Cincinnati Garden Railway Society and was commemorated on the Wall of Honor at the Fort Mitchell Fire Department. Many family vacations were happily centered around national fire chief conventions, relaxing getaways to Fripp Island and Vero Beach, or following his granddaughters around to volleyball tournaments.

Above all, Bill treasured his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Pamela Brown (nee Brandfass);daughters Jennifer (Stephen) Greis and Courtney (Corey) Grace; and his beloved grandchildren Emma, Evan, Paige, Julia, Micah, and Mia. He also leaves behind his faithful furry companion, Theo.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his brother, Dwight Addison Brown.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 12:00 PM at Linnemann Funeral Home in Erlanger, KY. A reception will occur at Summit Hills Country Club after services.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Cincinnati Fire Museum 315 West Court Street Cincinnati, OH 45202 or Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard Staten Island, NY 10306.

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