Danny Joe Brooks, 67, of Kenosha, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 31, 2011, at Hospice House in Pleasant Prairie, with his loving daughter by his side. He was born in Kansas City, KS, on May 19, 1944, the son of the late Harvey and Zelfa (Cone) Brooks. He graduated from Anderson University in Anderson, IN. On August 12, 1967, he married Kathy Noble in Wheaton, IL. They moved to Kenosha in 1968. She preceded him in death on March 10, 1990. Danny was employed as a Social Studies teacher at Bradford High School for 35 years, until his retirement in 2003. He was a member of the First Assembly of God Church. Danny is survived by his daughter, Jaymie (Scott) Dieterle of Anderson, IN; one grandchild; three brothers, John (Helen) Brooks of Osceola, AR, Robert (Betty) Brooks of Austin, TX, and Thomas (Synda) Brooks of Altus, OK; and three sisters, Nancy (Loren) Rohr of Lake Charles, LA, Betty (Erv) Mize of Mishawaka, IN, and Nyla (Richard) Moore of Elkhart, IN. He was preceded in death by his brother, William. A memorial service will be held Friday at Proko Funeral Home at 7:00 p.m. Interment will be private. A visitation will be held on Friday at the funeral home from 5:00 p.m. until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Kenosha Hospice Alliance (10220 Prairie Ridge Blvd, Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158) or to the Anderson University General Scholarship Fund in honor and memory of Danny Brooks (1100 East 5th Street, Anderson, IN 46012).Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th StreetKenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit Danny’s Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com
Condolences
Michelle Tijerina
May 26, 2012
My deepest sympathies to the family of Mr. Brooks. He will forever be one of my favorite teachers. He made it a pleasure to go to school everyday. May you rest in peace Mr. Brooks!
Kathy McGrath Hill
October 31, 2011
My deepest condolences to you Jamie and your family! I used to baby sit for you when you were just a baby (your cat Pookie attacked me during one of my baby sitting times). He was a wonderful teacher and had quite a sense of humor!
Jakkye Goodwin
July 21, 2011
I'm very sad to find out that Mr. Brooks passed away. I had him for applied economics right after lunch, and because of him, that was my favorite class. I will miss him very much. My deepest sympathies to you and your family.
Lori M Slis
June 24, 2011
Just reading through recent Kenosha News and I am saddened to hear that one of my favorite teachers has passed. Mr Brooks was very witty and made coming to school a real pleasure. He will be missed but he lives on in the lives of the people he touched.
Cindy (Bates) Nickolai
June 21, 2011
Dear Jayme and the entire Brooks family, Mr. Brooks, fondly remembered by many as one of their most influencing teachers and friends, left this world too soon, along with his endearing wife and soul-mate. I was so fortunate to be amongst one of his very first high school sociology students and had my perspective on life changed forever by his invaluable teaching skills and worldly knowledge about values, ethics and morals. He helped define my life goals and the goals of my children, and possibly, my grandchildren´s too. You can feel very proud of his many contributions to the lives of so many that will carry his legacy close to their hearts. He was truly a blessing to all of us.
Kris Olsen Thrailkill
June 20, 2011
Dear Jayme and the entire Brooks family,Please accept our deepest condolences for your profound loss. Your Dad was one of the most beloved teachers at Bradford and his legacy for making learning fun and interesting lives on in those who were blessed to once be a part of his life.Thank you for sharing him with so many over all the years. He was very special. May his legacy of excellence and fun, and his wonderful smile live on in the hearts of all who knew him.Mr. Brooks adds a bit more Fun to Heaven now. May God hold you all close and keep you in His care today and always.You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.Thanks again.
Dwayne Devore
June 5, 2011
I was very blessed to have Mr. Brooks as a teacher in High School... He Was ONE of only a handful of teachers that went out of this way for any student. He also was one in a million that made his classes one of the most anticipated to be in due to his "Learning thru Fun" teaching. That may have been do to his comedian like personality. The world is less one GREAT PERSON, and he will sadly be missed by many. Of the few things that I still remember about high school he was one of them. God Bless him and his family, HE WAS TRULY GREAT TO ALL IN MY EYES!
Jack Swartz
June 4, 2011
Mr.Brooks was the reason I became a teacher ... a sociology teacher at that. He made the class so interesting that it seemed a cool thing to do. He was also my cooperating teacher when I did my student teaching. I've always felt honored that I got to be mentored by him during that time.It's ridiculous how much I (tried to) emulate him in my teaching ... right down to the big, slashing line he used to mark an answer wrong. I wish I would have done more to keep in touch with him over the years, but ... that's how it goes, so often.I'm very sorry for your loss, but you can tell by the comments here that Mr. Brooks was a very special man and touched many lives. He certainly did mine.
Spencer and Sue Spaulding
June 4, 2011
Dear Jaymie, Scott. Josiah and all the family. Oh, how we loved Dan. He sprinkled love laughter, joy and friendship to everyone he met. Reading the remarkable and meaningful condolences here affirm that. A great teacher impacts a life, school, a community, and touches the future. In that way, Dan is still with us. He had an impact; he made a difference; his influence lives on... How proud he was of Jaymie, Scott and Josiah. We hold you in our hearts, hearts filled with gratitude for the precious gift of Dan's friendship. He and Kathy are in eternity, now, and our prayers for their family continue....
Staci Cooper
June 3, 2011
Jaymie, Scott and Josiah, Just wanted you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and have been all week! My prayer is that God will give you the strength you need to make it through this difficult time and when you can't...he can!! :) May you feel his presence in a special way today and over the next few days, weeks and months! We at Liberty Christian School have been uplifting you in prayer and will continue to do so! In His Love, Staci
Gail Chovan Kluver
June 3, 2011
Jaymie, I would like to share my deepest sympathy on the loss of your father. He was a great guy, I remember the trips he would take with us when we were in the Golden Strings together. Sitting at the piano and playing and singing. I still have a photo from when we were in Washington D.C. and there is a group of us together with your dad. I hope you can make it through this hard time with the aid of your family and friends. He will always be remembered. Love, Gail
Tom Pinzger
June 3, 2011
I was lucky to be one of Mr. Brooks' first students. We hit it off from day one. Not only was he a great teacher, but an outstanding person. He made everyone feel comfortable not only in class, but outside it. After I graduated we would run into each other and it was as if I was still in class because he was still concerned about me. I am deeply sadened by his passing. May God bless him and also you. Tom Pinzger
Don and Peggy Wynia
June 3, 2011
21 years ago my family and I moved in next to Dan. We could not have asked for a better neighbor or friend. The wonderful memories of the Sunday afternoon dinners, the foodie group get togethers, the Sunday morning coffee, and all of the other great times will not quite fill the hole left in our lives by his passing. His generosity toward us and others and his wit and humor have been an inspiration to me, my wife and all of the kids. Dan, you are missed terribly but your legacy lives on as an inspiration to many.
Mary (Wade) Durkee
June 3, 2011
I remember Mr. Brooks as a wonderful person - I started Work with the City of Kenosha with his late wife Kathy - their enjoyment of golfing. The wonderful husband he was to Kathy during her illness and passing. My condolences to the family.
Beth Dary
June 3, 2011
There seem to be so many facets of this man's life and I am grateful to have known him and to have been a part of it. I don't know him as 'Danny Jo', or 'Mr. Brooks' or even as 'B' - I know him simply as 'Dan'. Dan is a friend who's company and knowledge I have enjoyed in book group, going to Twilight Jazz with and feasting together with on many outstanding meals with friends. His wit and laughter I will carry with me the rest of my life. Dan shared his memorable life lessons that never ceased to substantiate his good moral character. His love for life, his family & friends & occasional fostered feline is an inspiration. Dan will be missed and treasured by more than just me.
Kris Neiman
June 3, 2011
Mr. Brooks was a great teacher and wonderful friend to a lot of children throughout the years. He will be sadly missed.
Guida Brown
June 3, 2011
I was blessed twice by knowing Dan Brooks, first as my Bradford High School Economics teacher and then, years later, as my friend. He was a caring, genuine person, and he will be sadly missed.
Brian Martinez
June 3, 2011
Mr. Brooks you will missed by everyone. You were one of the best teachers that I ever had and will always remember you. You made me and all the students who were blessed to have you learn in a way that worked to make us better. Thank you so much for your gift of education. Brian Martinez and Family
Laurie Willkomm
June 3, 2011
I had Mr. Brooks for Social Studies at Bradford in 1986 & he was by far my favorite teacher. I honestly just loved him... he was a great teacher, always made things fun & we laughed alot! He was just an overall genuine good guy! I am very sorry he is gone, he will sincerely be missed! God Bless!
Diane Kastelic
June 3, 2011
Mr. Brooks was a spectacular teacher: kind, funny, and he knew how to help us want to know more. Just thinking about him makes me smile. I can only imagine how hard is to lose him as a father and friend. My thoughts are with you all.
Tom Mikolyzk
June 2, 2011
Mr. Brooks invited us to question what was happening in the world, and he was always ready to engage us, even during 1st hour. Teachers such as he are all too rare.
Kelly (Tankersley) Curtis
June 2, 2011
I did not have Mr. Brooks as a teacher, But my senior year of high school we rode the bus together to school. He was a great man that had such a presence in our school. He would say hi to everyone in the hallway even if you were not his student. Bradford was a lucky school to have him as a teacher. He will be missed.
Stephanie Ruder
June 2, 2011
Mr. Brooks was a wonderful man. I had him as a teacher at Bradford and he was one of my favorites. I will always remember coming into class and sitting at his desk and saying "what's up Brooksy." I learned many life lessons during my classes with Mr. Brooks as I know that many of us who attended Bradford did. I graduated in 1997 and hope to become half the teacher he was in my career as teacher. He influenced so many lives including my families. Thanks for your support Mr. Brooks when my dad was sick and he passed away. I know that you were there for my family then. You were a wonderful man and teacher. Thank you and may you rest in peace. Stephanie Ruder
Kathleen (Ryan) Tenuta
June 2, 2011
What an honor, what a privilege. Mr. Brooks was an icon in the world of teaching. He got it..and he made us get it. One of my many special memories of him was when he came in to class one day with a grin from one side of his face to the other - he shared his wonderful news that he and Kathy were expecting..and we all know the rest of the story. God Bless you Jaymie, thank you for sharing him with us. He will be missed, but forever remembered.
Connie Maguire Mathis
June 2, 2011
My Uncle Danny Joe - How we will miss him!!!! Having him as an uncle growing up was a treat. So many memories of trips to Indiana, his visits to Texas, his wedding to Kathy, Jaymie being born, family reunions, talks on the phone... Not only was he a "great" uncle to me, but he has been a awesome Great uncle to my kids. They love their Uncle Danny Joe. We have been so touched by all the messages here in his honor. We knew he loved teaching. We knew he loved his students. We knew he invested in the lives of the students at his High School. I am not sure we really appreciated the full impact of his life and his devotion to teaching. The evidence, however, has come through loud and clear in these remembrances. Jaymie, Scott, Josiah, we are praying for you and we share in your grief. Thank you for sharing your dad with us...WE LOVED HIM!
Fran Ferrell
June 2, 2011
My heart is saddened to learn of the death of Dan Brooks. I had the privilege of teaching with him at Bradford for several years until 1975. He was always a dedicated teacher and a wonderful person. He and Kathy were always willing to chaperone when we needed chaperones--they were such a great team! I am also so sad to learn that she died at such a young age. My deepest sympathy to family and friends.
Vicki Follett
June 2, 2011
This message is on behalf of the nieces and Nephews of Dan Brooks, or Danny Jo as we called him. I am the oldest niece and just 5 years younger than Dan. I feel as though I have lost a brother rather than an uncle. I lived in Texas growing up but, fortunately our trips to visit in Elkhart were frequent. During these visits we developed a close relationship. There was never a time that Dan did not have time for me. This warm, funny, approachable person I have read about here is the genuine article. It was really because of Dan that I attended Anderson College. He was on campus with me my freshman year and that was such a blast. He and Kathy were married by then and lived right behind my dorm, so of course I made a nuisance of myself. It was such a comfort to have them there. Dan invested his life in the lives of others and it is so evident in all of these comments. He was loved and respected and I am so thankful for his influence in my life. I miss you Buddy.
Jared Kotz
June 2, 2011
Its funny but I was thinking of Mr. Brooks recently. I had him as a teacher one summer when I took a history class. He was an engaging teacher. I enjoyed his class.Sincerely,Jared Kotz (class of 73)
Nyla J.Moore
June 2, 2011
Wow, What a Man. Of course, we already knew this. Danny was our youngest brother. Youngest of eight preacher's kids. The product of a rich heritage of love and caring for others. He was the only one of us to go on to college, and he succeeded in becoming the man that I have been reading about today, on this site. He was born an under weight preemie.He grew to be one of the tallest of the five brothers. He was spoiled rotten but, learned that he should not frustrate his parents. I will have to admit, he was the "good boy". In fact, it is not true that the "preacher's kids" were the worst kids on the block. Well, at least the last four weren't the worst. The jury is still out on the first four. His beautiful daughter has been a wonderful part of our family. She took over when Danny needed her and stayed right by his side. That makes me confirm that our heritage still lives on. Her mother was precious and left us too soon. I need to say, to the group of retired teachers that came to see Danny regularly, you are awesome! So many times we see men pull away from the process of watching a friend who is gravely ill. Not these guys!!! They were at his bedside with words of concern and always making him laugh. Your words have touched us deeply. In fact, they are hard to read without tears. The one writer who said that you need to say these things while your friends and family are still here, is absolutely right. Don't miss the opportunity to say, I love you or you have been a wonderful part of my life.
Kenneth Labbe
June 2, 2011
Mr.Brooks, As I sit in my office in Washington, D.C., I remember the words you said to me in 1996 in Civics class, " Ken, you're going to make a political official mad someday". I'm happy to report, that since being employed by the federal government in 2003, I have been making various officials mad at me in various ways. I thank you :) Your class is what got me interested in our nations government. I never thought that one day I'd be working on the "front lines" of it. You've taught your students very well, and some of us have gone on to do great things. Take your rest now Sir. You deserve it, and we are all better people for having had you in our lives in some way.
Kris Winzer Miller
June 2, 2011
Dear Mr. Brooks, I am standing in the library of Old Bradford H.S. on Sheridan Rd. and 56th St. in beautiful, downtown, K-town where you began teaching in 1968. (I also work in this wonderful old library). I can still "hear" Mr. Bianchetti yelling at the Bradford Singers as they come late to his class after performing for a luncheon at Villa 'D Carlo. I "see" Miss Tenuta 2 doors down with her black reading glasses perched on the end of her nose watching us all as we navigate through the crowded halls to get to our next class, sometimes with wet or frozen hair from required showers after gym and running to the Annex in the winter. I "see" Mr. Miles, Mr. Manesis, Mr. McLean and 1970 rookie Tom Roders coming out of the smoke filled Social Studies office after discussing "the problem with today's students". Choir director Roger Tweiten is pounding out a tune on his piano trying to make sure the basses stay in tune. Principal Fowler is still chasing down that siren we used to pass around in the stands at the basketball games. Assistant Principals Mr. Bolyard and Mr.Matelski are busy disciplining "the Hoods". Coaches Hammond, Helwig and Giordana are making the guys run laps in the basement as the taller ones hit their heads on the pipes above and they will all have shin splints in the morning. A whole bunch of Bolyard brothers are wresting in "The Pit". I wish I could make one more trip to the candy counter at Penney's on my lunch time to buy 25 cents of maple clusters. Finally, Lakefront Stadium will be even colder now that your warm heart will no longer be there to cheer on the Bradford Red Devils. We love you Mr. Brooks....now teach those that went before you a thing or two!
Jody (Johnson) Walters
June 2, 2011
Jaymie, I'm so sorry to hear about the passing of your father. Not sure if you remember me, but I was in one of his classes back in 1975...and then I started babysitting you when your parents went out or went golfing. I babysat you all thru high school and alittle beyond. You had such great parents and your father was not only my favorite teacher but a great teacher to all. He had such a special way with the students and his way of teaching, you wanted to learn in his class. He will be missed dearly and will be remembered in all of our hearts, as he touched so many lives of Bradford students whether he was their teacher or not.
Kelly Heckel
June 2, 2011
I had the honor of being one of Mr. Brook's students. He was one of those very special and rare teachers that was able to make such a deep impact on so many of his students. He made learning fun and made you want to go to class each day just to see what he had to say! He truly was one of my favorite teachers and will be absolutely missed. I will never forget him! My thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends.
Pat (Birchell) Sielaff
June 2, 2011
May the memories be a source of comfort at this time. Mr. Brooks was such an inspiration, at a time when so many of his students were not sure of their direction. I always looked forward to his class, not for the love of the subject matter but the encouragement, humor and just knowing he cared about each of his students! I'm sorry for your loss and the loss to future students who could have benefited knowing him. May he rest in peace!
Mike Serpe
June 2, 2011
I am saddened to learn of Dan's passing. He and Kathy were some of the finest people I have had the good fortune to know. I know that you will miss him terrible but I hope that the wonderful memories of a kind and gentle man will give you some consolation in the years to come.We were lucky to have had him in our lives.
Eugene Kopp
June 2, 2011
My deepest condolences on the passing of a wonderful teacher and man. I was always a people person and he in his class inspired me to further my education in college in studying Sociology. With the passing of the years whenever we met in stores or on the street he would always stop and say hello and reminisced about our time at Bradford. I have fond memories of him and will miss his smile and enthusiasm. Your father Danny has influenced many people in his classes and he will be remembered by many. You are very fortunate to have had such a wonderful Father.
Elsa Zukowski
June 2, 2011
God speed Mr. Brooks, you were an amazing teacher, and you made a differance in so many young peoples lives. May God comfort your family and friends, for I am sure you will be missed.
Kevin Aney
June 2, 2011
Good bye and God Bless Mr Brooks!! You had a great influence on me during my time at Bradford. I always looked forward to seeing you in class and in the halls. Your humor and great teaching style made going to school fun. I only wish that other teachers could have learned that from you. Thanks for the words of encouragement and for believing in all of us.
Lucille (Helbling) Trim & James Helbling
June 2, 2011
Sorry for your loss. My brother and I use to live next door to Danny and his family in Elkhart, IN. Didn't know that he lived in Kenosha, for a few years I lived in Waukegan, IL with my daughter. My granddaughter lives in Kenosha. He will be missed. Lucille Helbling Trim & James Helbling, Elkhart,IN
Roger Tweiten
June 2, 2011
Dan was a great person and a dynamic teacher. I spent several years as his colleague and was saddened to hear of his passing. His legacy will, among other things, be the impact he had on the many students he taught who likely owe some of their social DNA to his method of connecting with them. May his family be comforted and may his soul rest in peace.
Claudette Johnston
June 2, 2011
Mr. Brooks was a great teacher. He motivated me in a way unlike any other teacher. He always had a smile on his face and something silly to say to us all in the hallway. He inspired me. I will miss him!
Pastor Tim Hammye
June 2, 2011
I am praying for the family. Mr. Brooks was one my favorite teachers and felt like he was one my friends. May God bless you with comfort and peace
Shelly Mortensen
June 2, 2011
It was an honor to have you as a teacher. You were always there to answer questions and inspire students to want to learn. You spoke at my graduation ceremony, and even though it has been 18 years since that date, I will never forget the touching words you spoke to our class that day. You will be missed. God bless you and your family.
Rhonda A. Rizzo
June 2, 2011
He was a wonderful teacher and a true friend to so many,, peace to all of you and my deepest sympathy.
Lori (Lukawski) Warrens
June 2, 2011
My condolences to your family. I was a student of Mr. Brooks and he was one of my favorite teachers. Social studies was a favorite subject of mine and I give your father credit for reinforcing my interest. Best Wishes, Lori Warrens
Merl F Heinlein
June 2, 2011
In 1963 Danny had to put up with me as a room mate, Freshman - Anderson College. I've thought of Danny over the past few years, and wanted to touch base with him. Last week I asked the Anderson University Alumni to assist, they located information June 1st; and contacted me. I was going to tell Danny of my appreciation for his maturity, during a freshman year at college. I realized later, Danny didn't have to put up with me; he chose to do so. I was 17 years old, I think Danny was 18. If you have something to say to anyone, find their phone number or mailing address; and tell them ....you might want to do that now.
Michael Murphy
June 2, 2011
Looking back at High School, if I could choose just one teacher that made an everlasting impact in my life, it would be Dan Brooks. Mr. Brooks was able to connect with students by instituting a challenging curriculum, yet acting just as goofy as some of us. He truly was passionate about teaching and judging from the messages here, it really shows. I am sorry I never told him directly the impact he made on me. Nevertheless, he shall always remain alive in my heart. Rest in Peace, Mr. Brooks.
Keri (Heckel) Bieri
June 2, 2011
Mr. Brooks you were an amazing teacher that made a real difference in the lives of your students! You will be forever missed! I graduated in 1998 and had Mr. Brooks as my teacher. His enthusiasm for teaching helped inspire me to also become a teacher.
Kris Winzer Miller
June 2, 2011
To the family and friends of Mr. Brooks. As students at Bradford H.S. both the old and the new buildings, we were lucky to have such a wonderful teacher. He loved his work, he loved his students, and he continued to love Bradford H.S. even after he retired. His knowledge, enthusiasm and wit will always be remembered by his many hundreds of students who got a chance to learn from one of our finest teachers. Rest in peace Mr. Brooks, you were loved and respected by many students, parents and colleagues. From all Bradford alumni.
Bea (Jagiello) McLean
June 1, 2011
Condolences to the family of Mr. Brooks. I am 60 and your dad was my teacher in his first year at Bradford. I still have a vivid picture of him in my mind. He was so enthusiastic about teaching and about social issues -- and there was a hotbed of them at the time! Your dad was by far the "coolest" teacher I had at Bradford -- he opened our eyes to the world -- and I will always remember him.
Dana Behnke-Anderson
June 1, 2011
My deepest condolences to the family of Mr.Brook's. He was a wonderful teacher. Although I never had him as a teacher the tremendous support he gave my sister when she was in his class and having medical issues was beyond anything a teacher has to do. He cared about his students and was loved by so many. He touched many lives. Rest in peace.
Dr. Tom Werbie
June 1, 2011
Mr. Brooks was a great teacher and a great man. He will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Dave and Rachel Ramsey
June 1, 2011
Dear Jaymie, Scott, and Josiah,I pray for peace to you all following the passing of your father, father-in-law, and grandfather. He had to have been a fine man to have such a fine family. Therefore, we all know he is with the Lord, and from there will your peace come. Rachel
Jane Ann Clougher
June 1, 2011
Mr. Brooks was a wonderful person and a great teacher. He will be greatly missed, your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Alison Jax Dreier
June 1, 2011
Mr. Brooks was a great teacher. I remember him taking the time to come to my graduation party. He was such a wonderful person.
Laura (Niemi ) Kozlowski
June 1, 2011
Mr. Brooks , You were one of the favorite teachers to so many. I was one of the lucky ones to have you as a teacher . My prayers will go out to your family and friends . Laura
Kathy Sesser
June 1, 2011
I don't think I ever saw Danny without a smile on his face. Bradford lost something after he retired; he touched so many people. I hope he realized how important he was during his life, and I'm sure his influence will continue for many, many years to come--everytime someone remembers "Mr. Brooks." Rest in peace, Danny. Know that you are missed.
Sean Dolan
June 1, 2011
Dan, You will be sorely missed by our family. My wife Dawn, our three kids (Caitlyn, Kyle, & Ryan), and I have been blessed to have known you and been a part of your life. You were a great part of our lives. I could not have had a greater golf partner than you. You have been a great influence both in my personal and teaching life. You will never be forgotten. With love and respect, Sean Dolan & family
Jeff Holt
June 1, 2011
Jaymie, Scott, and the Brooks family, my thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. Although I have never met Dan, from what I can tell he was a terrific father, grandfather, father-in-law and teacher and I have enjoyed hearing Scott talk about him over the years. He will truly be missed by many and my sympathies are with you during this difficult time!
Ozzie & Joyce (Kopacz) Sorensen
June 1, 2011
Dear Jaymie and family, May you find tranquility in knowing that many of his friends share in the loss of your father. Mr. Brooks, as many of us came to know him, was one of the great teachers. I had the privilege of having him his first year at Bradford (1968). Not only was he my teacher, he & your mother were our neighbors. So he had a little hold over us neighborhood kids for another reason - friends to our parents. He especially loved the Italian cooking that was sent their way - always joking, but always firm. Over the years our paths crossed many times, from being a teacher to our son to becoming a friend to have coffee with at Common Grounds. I think last summer he told me that I could FINALLY drop the Mr. Brooks and just call him Dan, as we laughed - it was hard to do after 40 some years! We laughed and joked and shared many funny moments of our past together. He gained respect from so many co-workers and students. My friend will always be known to me as Mr. Brooks. HE will surely be missed.
Kelli (Kuczenski) Moon
June 1, 2011
Such a great man taken too early. Mr. Brooks was a great teacher and friend. He always had time for his students, no matter how busy he was. Rest in peace Mr. Brooks
Tina Ivey -Markiewicz
June 1, 2011
Mr. Brooks was without a doubt a favorite teacher of MANY MANY students. He touched the lives of so many throughout his years of teaching. It was a sad day for the school district when he finally retired and an even sadder one today as we say goodbye to a teacher and man that was loved by so many. Any student that didn't have the pleasure of having him as a teacher surely missed out. Rest in Peace Mr Brooks!
Michelle (Grim) Pearce
June 1, 2011
Mr. Brooks was a legend at Bradford High School. I remember meeting him as a freshman and after that I could hardly wait to have him as a teacher during my junior year. I graduated in 2002, and he is one of the teachers that I still tell stories about. He is loved and will be missed by many students.
Cynthia Wesselius-Delgadillo
June 1, 2011
Please accept my deepest most sincere condolences on the loss of your father. I graduated in 1980, and I still remember the impact he had on me, and all of us who knew him. He was a wonderful man and will be missed.
Jamie (Meier) Mattek
June 1, 2011
Mr. Brooks was one of the nicest teachers at Bradford. One of the rare few that actually connects and cares about the kids. He was never one of my teachers - but I still had the pleasure of getting to know him and he was our senior class adviser (1984). I will never forget commencement rehearsal & him teasing me about not tripping up the stairs with the heels I was wearing. RIP MR. Brooks - you were one in a million!