Sad Day for Poker: ‘Downtown’ Chad Brown Passes Away

Just couple days ago, we’ve written about the honorary bracelet Chad Brown received for his contribution and the impact he made in the poker community. He was in a really bad shape as his cancer was winning the ultimate battle. As of today, Chad Brown is no longer with us. He died at the age of 52 in a New York Hospital after losing a three-year long battle with the cancer.

Brown, who grew up around his father’s underground poker game, always nurtured a love for games. By the time he got in the high school, Chad started playing minor-league baseball, before the life had taken him on the path of an actor. Although his Hollywood career was not unsuccessful, Brown decided it wasn’t where he wanted to be.

Returning to his roots, he has taken up poker seriously in early 90s, and before long, has become one of the best mixed-games players around. The fact that camera loved him only helped him further in his career, as he had become a sought-after poker commentator.

Although he did not manage to acquire a WSOP bracelet at the felt, Brown’s poker winnings are in excess of $3.6 million. In fact, he was successful in every professional walk of life he had taken seriously. But even more importantly, Chad Brown was hugely successful in his personal life as well.

espite his competitive nature, he always cared deeply for others and was always there for them, to offer an advice or a friendly ear. Modest in victory and respectful in defeat, Chad has gained a profound respect of the entire poker community and the others who had a pleasure of meeting him. This was clear from all the support, prayers and good wishes that were being sent his way during his struggle, and culminated in the bracelet award ceremony from a couple nights ago.

And even during his final moments, Chad’s spirit was not defeated. He refused to feel or act like the victim. He was willing to battle all the way and he fell fighting. The bracelet he was awarded was to honor his life, on and off the felt, and everything he stood for.

The world has lost a one-of-a kind person with Chad Brown’s departure, but his memory will no doubt keep living in minds and hearts of numerous people who have been touched by kindness and his always positive attitude. His body may have given up, but his spirit will keep on living for many years to come.