Don L. Brooks

Don Brooks, age 81, passed away Saturday, June 20, 2026, at St. Joseph Medical Center, surrounded by family.

Survived by his two loving children Scott (Allison) Brooks and Amy (Brian) Brooks, his sister Martha (Jerry) Stroud, his brother Robert (Claudia) Brooks, his dog Duke, and Kitty the cat. Numerous nieces, nephews and friends also survive.

Preceded in death by his beloved wife of 48 years Marianne Brooks (née Ruddy), his parents Harry D. and Marguerite E. (Gerrish) Brooks and his good friend Sandy Richards.

He was born in Bluford, Illinois and grew up in southern Illinois and was a long-time resident of Joliet. He graduated from Southern Illinois University and earned a Master’s degree from Governors State University.

Don was an educator for over 25 years in the Valley View School District, teaching at Valley View, Robert C. Hill, and Jonas Salk schools. After retiring from teaching, he embarked on a second career, turning his part-time position at Sherwin-Williams into a full-time job.

Don was very active and always had a household project that he was working on. He was an animal lover and cared for many cats and dogs over the years. He also loved feeding wild birds, giving them extra treats at Christmas because “they deserve something for Christmas too.” He loved his vegetable garden and helping Marianne with her floral garden. They also enjoyed treasure hunting at garage sales, playing pinochle and euchre. He enjoyed snacking on popcorn and sipping wine while watching detective shows and police procedurals together with Marianne. He devoured thrillers and action-adventure novels from authors such as Tom Clancy and Clive Cussler. Don was always up for a good game of chess or word games on his phone. He spent many hours outside fishing, although he always released the fish he caught. He took great pride in a well-maintained yard. Don also spent much time in his basement woodworking-often making birdhouses so the feeder visitors didn’t have far to go for a meal. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, Duke, Kitty, and the birds.

Funeral services will be held Friday June 26, 2026, 10:00 a.m. at the Blackburn-Giegerich-Sonntag Funeral Home. Interment will take place following the services at Woodlawn Memorial Park. Visitation Thursday from 6-8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Will County Humane Society.