September 19, 1959 – September 20, 2026
On September 20, 2026, Ricky “Rick” Brown peacefully left this life surrounded by love. For those who knew Rick, it is easy to imagine that his spirit simply moved beyond what we can see, carrying with it the same creativity, warmth, and sense of wonder that shaped his life. He believed deeply in meaning, connection, and the quiet signs woven into everyday moments, and his life leaves behind a reminder that love and beauty continue long after a person is gone.
Rick was an artist in every sense of the word. Creativity was woven into the way he saw the world, connected with others, and expressed himself. His paintings became treasured gifts and lasting pieces of him, each reflecting the imagination, emotion, and beauty he carried throughout his life.
That same spirit shaped Rick’s deep dedication to the LGBTQ+ community.
For many years, Rick devoted his heart, talent, and energy to the United Court of the Pikes Peak Empire (UCPPE), the oldest LGBTQ+ charitable organization in Southern Colorado. His passion for performance came from an even deeper commitment to advocacy, visibility, and creating spaces where people could feel safe, accepted, celebrated, and fully themselves.
Lovingly known for many years as the Queen Mother of UCPPE, Rick became a mentor and guide to generations of performers and community members. He encouraged others to find their confidence, their voice, and their place within the community. His influence will continue through the people he supported, the traditions he helped shape, and the sense of belonging he worked so hard to create.
Rick was deeply spiritual, often finding meaning in the quiet details of everyday life that others might overlook. He had a way of seeing connection, beauty, and purpose in the ordinary, and he encouraged those around him to do the same.
Rick was preceded in death by his mother, Cleva Joy Brown/Gordon; his father, Harvey Gene Brown; his brother, Karl Brown; and his first partner, Ed.
He is survived by his siblings, Viki Brown; Jeff Brown and his wife, Cindy; and Kimberly Fox and her husband, Andrew. He is also survived by his beloved nieces and nephews, who meant the world to him and were a treasured part of his life.
Rick is also survived by his husband, Roy Merkle, and his stepsons, Anthony Merkle and Breck Merkle, along with an extraordinary extended and chosen family of friends, artists, performers, and community members whose lives were changed by knowing him.
Although Rick is no longer physically with us, what he created remains. It lives in the artwork hanging on walls, in the people he mentored, in the community he served, and in the safe spaces he helped build.
Perhaps his greatest legacy is the example he leaves behind: to create freely, love boldly, make room for others, show up for your community, and embrace life as the gift it truly is.
Rick spent his life adding color, meaning, and belonging to the world.
Those who loved him will carry that forward.
Celebration of Life
October 10, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.
Pikes Peak Metropolitan Community Church
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rick’s honor to the United Court of the Pikes Peak Empire (UCPPE).