Charles “Chuck” Brown passed away at Doctor’s Medical Center in Modesto, CA on Saturday, October 6th. He was 60 years old. 

Chuck was born in Washington D.C. to Benjamin and Jeannine Brown. After serving honorably in the US Navy for 2 years, Chuck started working in various restaurants and soon had a dream of one day owning his own. 

The story of a hardworking, self-made man, Chuck worked tirelessly to accomplish everything he wanted in life, opening AJ’s Café in May of 2000. Chuck believed that a restaurant should be an “extension of a family dining room.” He always strived to make every customer feel like they were at home. 

He felt so truly blessed and was very appreciative of the town’s support that he was always happy to give back to the community in many ways. Chuck frequently contributed his time, services and donations, especially to the MJC Pirates Concessions. He helped to successfully finance their program for about four years. 

In his spare time, Chuck was an avid golfer and Harley rider, as he would say “is there any other kind?” He also enjoyed football and baseball, often spending a day off at a game. 

Chuck is survived by his loving wife, Lisa Brown; his two children, Jeannie Brown of Turlock and Adam Brown of AL; four grandsons and two brothers, Franklin Brown of OR and Joseph Brown of CA. 

Remembrance and visitation will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, October 14th at Turlock Funeral Home, 425 N. Soderquist Rd., Turlock. If you would like to share a picture, written memory or card, submit it to AJ’s before Saturday.