BETHEL — On Feb. 19, Jan Neal Brownstein died peacefully at home, following a stroke while vacationing in Jamaica.

Jan was born Nov. 1, 1949, in Washington, D.C., the son of Herman and Harriet Brownstein. His family moved to Nashua, N.H., when Jan was 13. After graduating from Nashua High School, Jan attended Keene State College and Colby College.

An avid mineral collector, Jan turned his passion into his profession when he co-purchased the Songo Pond Mine in Bethel, in the late 1990s. He worked as a gemologist and cut and sold aquamarine and other gemstones from the mine. He was especially proud of his work in Maine gems and minerals. Along his journey, Jan was always accompanied by trusted and loving canine companions: Savage, Topaz and Boss, Cinnamon, and most recently, his California rescue dog, Callie.

Jan is survived by his father, Herman Brownstein; his brother, Mark Brownstein; his sister, Linda West; his daughter, Julie DeGreenia; his grandchildren, Emily, Branden, Julian and Alexus; his niece, Hannah Brownstein; his nephew, Jesse West; his uncle and aunt, Julian and Marilyn Korn; numerous cousins; and some of the best friends a person could ever want in life.

A celebration of Jan’s life was held privately at his home.

Copy the Story Link