Calvin Brown

Calvin “Cal” Myron Brown, age 82, of Lehigh Acres, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2026, at Gulf Coast Medical Center in Fort Myers, Florida, surrounded by his family.

Born in Shortsville, New York, in March of 1944, he was the son of the late Ina and Calvin Brown. In Cal’s younger years, he was married to Patricia Monje Brown, and together they had two sons, Calvin and Bruce. Sadly, Patricia lost her battle with cancer at the age of 40. Cal spent much of his life in the Finger Lakes region of New York before beginning to winter in Lehigh Acres in 2013. He and his beloved wife, Alexis, later made Florida their permanent home in 2020.

Cal was a hardworking entrepreneur whose career reflected both his dedication and diverse talents. He began his professional farming career at a very young age, working alongside his grandfather. He and Patricia founded Rosewood Farms in the 1970s, growing it into the largest commercial hog farm in New York State. Along with this, they worked together to build Brown’s Kountry Kustard into a local favorite, establishing it as one of the first venues to offer farm-to-table food service alongside their locally famous frozen custard.

In the mid-1990s, Cal transitioned into the catering and fresh meat business, which is when he met Alexis Santasieri. Recognizing their common interests, they became partners in business and in life. Soon after, they were married and together founded Calexis Livestock Farm, where they raised Black Angus cattle and cultivated crops, providing quality products to communities throughout Western New York. Cal’s love of business and agriculture became a proud family legacy, inspiring his sons in their own careers; his son Cal followed in his father's footsteps in the livestock industry, while his son Bruce built a successful career in catering.

A man of strong faith and service, Cal was a devoted member of Oaks Corners Presbyterian Church in New York and Buckingham Presbyterian Church in Florida. He generously volunteered his time at church fish fries, pancake breakfasts, and numerous community events, always enjoying the fellowship and opportunity to serve others.
Cal believed deeply in giving back. A dedicated Rotarian for more than 40 years, he was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow in recognition of his service and commitment. He enthusiastically supported and hosted fundraising events, including the popular Blues and Brews gatherings, helping improve the lives of countless individuals through Rotary's mission. His involvement also extended to the New York Pork Producers Association, the New York Steam Engine Association, and the New York Farm Bureau—organizations that reflected his lifelong devotion to agriculture and rural communities.

Above all, Cal was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who treasured time spent with family. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, generosity, faith, and friendship that will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Cal is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Alexis (Santasieri) Brown; his children, Cal (Krista) Brown of Canandaigua, New York, Bruce (Susan) Brown of Phoenix, Arizona, Greg (Linda) Santasieri of Penn Yan, New York, Thomas Santasieri of Lehigh Acres, Florida, and Christina (John) Ferber of Naples, Florida; nine grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held on September 27, 2026 from 1pm-5pm at Kings Catering, 4031 State Route 5+20, Canandaigua NY 14424.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Cal's memory may be made to the Oaks Corners Presbyterian Church, P.O Box 6, Phelps NY 14532.

Cal's family is grateful for the many friendships, kindnesses, and memories shared throughout his remarkable life. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.