Most people probably associate the Browning name with firearms, and with good reason. The Browning Arms Co. has revolutionized the industry.
But while Val A. Browning, who died this week at the age of 98, honorably carried on and contributed to his family's arms business, he should be remembered more for the many ways he helped life in Utah.The list of his contributions includes a cancer-treatment center at St. Benedict's Hospital, a fine arts center at Weber State University, the St. Joseph High School Library, the Browning Arms Gun Museum at Ogden's Union Station, an administration building at Utah Valley State College and a learning resource center and library at Dixie College.
A lover of art, he donated a collection of European masterworks to the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, including a painting by Pieter Brueghel the Younger worth an estimated $1 million.
A man with such a large heart and generous love for his home state will be sorely missed. But the effects of his philanthropy will be felt for generations to come.
Browning was the son of John Moses Browning, a famous inventor of weapons. The list of inventions includes the .45-caliber pistol, an automatic shotgun and the Browning Automatic Rifle. The elder Browning then founded the Browning Arms Co. in 1898.
Val A. Browning carried on that tradition. He held many patents of his own, including improvements to his father's weapons. As a young man, he taught French soldiers preparing for World War I how to use machine guns his father had invented. He stayed in Europe several years and eventually was decorated by King Baudouin of Belgium with the Cross of Chevalier de l'Order de Leopold for "eminent services rendered to gun making."
Several years ago, Browning was quoted on his life's philosophy. "If you are in a position to help people, you get a satisfaction that makes you want to do more," he said. "There is a feeling of success in doing something beneficial, whether it is a mechanical improvement or in human relations."
The philosophy, and the man, are worth remembering and treasuring.