Rachel Jane Brown (Price), born on February 23, 1945, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, passed away at her home in Askov, Minnesota, on Sunday, April 6, 2025, due to a reoccurring medical issue. Jane had previously resided in the cities of Worthington, Blaine, and Lino Lakes, MN.

Jane's life was a kaleidoscope of service and leadership. Jane attended Richfield High School and Winona State College, graduating with honors from both. After college, Jane went to Washington, DC to work for then Congressman Al Quie. Jane returned to Minnesota and began a short tenure as a business teacher. During this time, she met her husband of 56 years, Peter Brown. After the birth of her first son in 1970, Jane returned to a career that saw her in administrative roles with state programs such as Head Start, Energy Assistance, and Community Action. Jane again served Al Quie while he was Governor of Minnesota.

Jane welcomed a second son in 1976 and continued to hold executive positions with various organizations, including Minnegasco, Minnesota High Tech Association, Minnesota Physical Therapy Association, and Minnesota Diversified Industries.

In 1991, Governor Arne Carlson appointed Jane as Commissioner of the State Department of Economic Security, a position she held throughout the Carlson administration. During her tenure, Jane played a pivotal role in establishing the Minnesota Workforce Center System and made significant contributions to the passage of the Federal Workforce Investment Act in 1998. These achievements brought her national recognition. Jane retired as the executive director of Second Harvest Heartland food bank in 2007.

Jane also had the privilege of serving on numerous boards and committees during her public life. Of great significance to Jane were her positions on the Health Partners Board of Directors and the North Pine Area Hospital District Board.

Jane's strength of character was unwavering. Honesty, integrity, and compassion were guiding principles in her actions. Jane felt a deep sense of purpose helping those in need.

In 2010, Jane and her husband relocated to rural Pine County. Jane continued her public service by volunteering and contributing her leadership skills and experiences. One of Jane's proudest accomplishments was her participation in the 2017 establishment of the Pine Healthcare Campus in Sandstone, featuring a new hospital. The Pine County Museum in Askov was also important to Jane. She enjoyed her volunteer hours there.

Jane found immense pleasure in gardening, spending time in nature, driving the ski boat, her small dogs, and the time spent at Elephant Lake. She was a dedicated life sponsor of Ducks Unlimited.

Jane is survived by her husband of 56 years, Peter Brown; their sons, Forrest (Anne) of Los Angeles and Blair of Askov; her brother, Steve (Becky) Price of St. Paul; her sister, Annette (Phil) Kittleson of Anchorage; and many fine friends.

A memorial service for Jane is being planned for a later date.

Arrangements by Methven Funeral and Cremation Services of Sandstone, MN.