Gail A. Brown, 79, passed away on December 21, 2013 in Des Moines, surrounded by his loving wife and children. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Friday, December 27, 2013 at McLaren's Chapel in West Des Moines. Gail's final resting place will be at Resthaven Mausoleum in West Des Moines.Gail was born October 24, 1934 in Prole, IA, the third son of Gail E. and Inez Brown. As an infant, Gail's father passed away. When he was eight, his mother married Sid Hartman, bringing three step-sisters and a father into Gail's life.Gail was raised in rural Madison County where he attended various country schools. He graduated from Winterset High School where he lettered in basketball. In August of 1955, Gail married Jean Schutz, his wife of 58 years. They made their home in West Des Moines where they raised 4 children. Gail was a brick mason by trade and started his own company, Brown Construction in 1972. Gail enjoyed hunting, golf and cards. He was involved with the Jaycees and was a member of the Izaac Walton League. When his children were young, he was active in coaching their athletic teams and later loved attending his grandchildren's various activities.Gail was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Bob; step-sister, Mary Hunt; and his grandson, Nile Warren. He is survived by his wife; brother, Don (Catherine); his step-sisters Verla Wilson, Velma (Glen) Acorn; son, Greg (Terri); daughters, Joanie (Tim) Florer, Carol Brown and Julie (Rod) Warren; twelve grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Early Chapel Church, 1440 - 165th St., Earlham, IA 50072. - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/desmoinesregister/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=168727031#sthash.JSKTXVmf.dpuf