David H. Brown Sr. ’53

David died Feb. 9, 2023, in Yardley, Pa.

He was born in Manhattan and came to Princeton from Phillips Academy. He joined Cannon Club, majored in chemical engineering, wrestled for the University, and discovered classical art and music that inspired him throughout his life after Princeton.

David went to work for Tidewater Oil Co. at their plant in Bayonne, N.J. He entered the U.S. Army in 1955 and spent two years at Dugway, Utah, with the Chemical Corps. After leaving the Army, David earned an MBA and Ph.D. at the University of Pennsylvania and served as an OR engineer and analyst for Morgan Guaranty Trust Co. Eventually he started and led his own business, Princeton Energy Partners, until his retirement.

Continuing to support the performing arts, David was a founding member of the Princeton Festival in 2004, which continues today with the Princeton Symphony.

He also served as vice president of the class for several years and joyfully organized many reunions and class events. For the 70th-reunion letter, he wrote: “My Princeton experience has been a Great Light in my life, which I totally cherish.”

David is survived by his wife of 56 years, Jeannette; their two children; two grandchildren; and by his daughter and granddaughter from a prior marriage. A grandson preceded him in death.