Muriel J. Brown

Muriel J. Brown, 82, of Moorhead, MN, died Monday, January 20, 2020, at Bethany on University in Fargo, ND. Muriel was born to Clarence and Hilda (Peterson) Anderson on November 11, 1937, in Mitchell, SD, where she grew up and graduated from high school. Following high school, she graduated from Dakota Wesleyan University. While attending graduate school at the University of Nebraska, she met Robert Brown. On June 19, 1960, they were married. Together they lived in Lincoln, NE, where they both pursued PhDs in English.

After receiving her PhD, they moved to Moorhead, MN, in 1969. In 1974, Muriel began her career at North Dakota State University where she was a Professor of English. During her 39 years at the University, she took great pride in guiding students through their coursework. Highly respected by her peers, she eventually served as chair of the department starting in 1997. Over the years, she was involved in many committees and boards, and received awards for her commitment to education.

In her free time, Muriel enjoyed sewing and needlework, gardening and reading. She loved to interact with children and always enjoyed encouraging the success of others. She had a deep work ethic and an unflagging kindness for those she met.

Muriel is survived by her two sons, Erik and Dana, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Robert Brown; and brothers, Raymond, Willmer, Marlin and Delbert.

A visitation will be held Saturday, February 8, from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m., followed by the memorial service at 3:00 pm, at Bethesda Lutheran Church in Moorhead.

Interment will be at Evergreen Memorial Cemetery in Moorhead.