Carmen Lee Brown, 65, of Ankeny, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, August 16, 2025 surrounded by love. Born on May 6, 1960, in Iowa City, Iowa, to Lloyd and Sandra Witte, Carmen lived a life marked by dedication, resilience, and a deep, enduring love for her family and community.

A visitation for Carmen will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Memorial Services of Iowa (4208 N. Ankeny Blvd).

Carmen’s professional journey was one of remarkable achievement and passion. For 45 years, she served with distinction at Principal Financial Group, beginning in Pension Administration and later becoming an accomplished IT programmer. Her brilliance and innovation led to the development of two programs still in use today — a testament to the lasting impact of her work.

Beyond her career, Carmen’s life was rich with joy and adventure. She and her beloved husband of 47 years, Brad, shared a unique and whimsical passion for rock hunting. From palm-sized stones to massive boulders requiring heavy machinery, the couple traveled near and far collecting natural treasures. Their home became a testament to that passion — a stunning rock garden so distinctive that it stands as a local landmark in Ankeny.

Carmen’s love for Brad was the kind that others aspired to — deep, steadfast, and full of joy. She was beautiful inside and out, with a radiant smile that never left her face. Friends often said her smile felt like a hug — warm, comforting, and full of light.

A true fighter, Carmen faced cancer with the same determination and grace that defined her entire life. Her strength inspired everyone who knew her, and her absence will be deeply felt by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.

Carmen is survived by her parents, Lloyd and Sandra Witte of Coralville, IA; her loving husband, Brad Brown of Ankeny, IA; her son, Shannon Brown of Austin, TX; her daughter, Charisse Karpan of Ankeny, IA; her special friends of mention who helped her through her journey, Jane Noble and Kate Doerhoff; and a wide circle of friends who became like family.