Community mourns graduate

NORWALK — Local community members are mourning the death of 2022 Norwalk High School valedictorian Luke Brown. Brown was discovered deceased Saturday in his dormitory room in Bryan Hall at Ohio University, university police said. Police did not release his cause of death. Luke was the 21-year-old son of Dustin and Jennifer Brown, of Norwalk, according to his obituary. He was a junior at Ohio University's Honors Tutorial College. In addition to being valedictorian, he served as vice president of the high school's National Honor Society, class of 2022 secretary. He also ran track and cross country. In 2021, he was named Homecoming King, according to reports. Upon hearing of his passing, many in the community mourned his death on social media: • First Presbyterian Church Norwalk: "Our hearts at First Presbyterian Church are breaking. Luke Brown, age 21, of Norwalk, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, April 26, 2025. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at the First Presbyterian Church, 21 Firelands Blvd, Norwalk. The funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. Pastors James Hodsden and Joe Binkley will officiate. A reception will follow, and private interment will be held later at Olena Cemetery. 'But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not faint.' — Isaiah 40:31" • Adrianna Torres: "My heart breaks for Luke Brown. Luke was a ball of light and so full of life. Luke definitely won't ever be forgotten. My heart goes out to the Browns family, friends, and just to anyone who knew this amazing kid, may you rest in paradise Luke." • Randy Orth: "Rest in peace Luke Brown, definitely someone who was taken way too soon, if you knew him, you knew he was a kind soul that found good in everyone no matter how wayward they might be, this just is not right man. Condolences to the Brown family." • Sydney Hughes: "How we will miss your infectious laugh and smile everyday Luke, you were loved by so many. My heart goes out to the Brown family during this unimaginable time."