Ernestine K. Brown, affectionately known as “Erne K.” to her close friends, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026, in Cortez, Colorado, at the age of 96. Born in Munich, Germany, to Josef and Katharina Wagner, Ernestine immigrated to the United States in 1959. She was deeply proud to become an American citizen and made her home in Cortez, Colorado, where she lived for more than sixty years.

She married Walter D. Howell, and together they had a son, Josef T. (JT) Howell. Later in life, she married Kenneth P. Brown. Ernestine was a woman of deep faith and quiet strength who found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved visiting with family and neighbors, taking long walks, swimming, bicycling and baking cookies for those around her. Known for her generosity, she gave freely of her time and resources to help others. Ernestine was a longtime, beloved member of the First Baptist Church of Cortez, where she was warmly known as “the candy lady” by the congregation. After the birth of her grandchildren, her world revolved around them. She cherished sharing stories of her faith, her life experiences, and travels. She especially loved shopping with her granddaughter and taking her grandson to local diners for special treats.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Josef and Katharina Wagner; her brother, Josef Wagner; and her husbands. She is survived by her son, Josef (JT) Howell, his wife Elizabeth and her cherished grandchildren, Max and Emily Howell. A loving mother, grandmother, and friend, Ernestine will be remembered for her warm heart, joyful spirit, and the many lives she touched with her kindness.