Bown died Nov. 17 at the age of 82.

He was at the helm when the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building was bombed in 1995 and when the original MAPS was approved and implemented two years earlier. Known for his humor, quick wit and frankness, Bown served as city manager from 1991 to 1998. After retiring, he volunteered as chairman of the OKC Airport Trust. Current City Manager Jim Couch remembered Bown for his wisdom and leadership:

“Don was city manager during a very critical time in Oklahoma City history that included the passage of two bond issues, the implementation of MAPS 1 and the tragic Murrah bombing,” Couch said.

Bown was appointed as city manager after serving 14 years as the city’s general services director and finance director.

  • or