In Memory of Vivian Brown.

Vivian and Marian Brown, image courtesy staxnet’s flickr photo stream

I have been crossing paths with the San Francisco twins, Vivian and Marian Brown, since the first week I moved to San Francisco in 1994.

I can’t count the times I noticed them sitting at their reserved window table at Uncle Vito’s pizza, corner of Bush & Powell. It seemed weekly they were sharing a small pizza and a slice of chocolate cake on a Wednesday, or was it a Thursday night, at 6:00.

Adorable and fashionable (sharing over 100 matching outfits) they were hard not to notice. Always smiling they were San Francisco icons. Friendly and gracious they were also a commercial success, appearing in over 25 television commercials and several national talk shows over the years.

It saddened me today to read that Vivian Brown has passed away. She died in her sleep Wednesday night at a local nursing home after suffering from Alzheimers for several months.

I can’t imagine the loss Marian is feeling. Her sister, best friend and life-partner is now gone. It is a sad time in San Francisco and a time when Marian needs our support. If you would like to help, stop by Uncle Vito’s pizza, corner of Bush and Powell, and leave a donation in Marian's name. She now dines at Uncle Vito’s daily and will appreciate the support.

My condolences Marian—you and your sister Vivian have lived large, memorable lives. Much love to you both.