PERU — Roger L. Brooks, 77, of Brand Hollow Road, Peru passed away Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013 at his home under the loving care of his family and Hospice of the North Country.
He was born in Ellenburg, Sept. 7, 1935, the son of Lyle and Bertha (Drown) Brooks.
Roger married the former Shirley Collins, Sept. 14, 1956 in Ellenburg. During their 56 year marriage, they raised three children, and helped raise seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
A devoted and hard worker, Roger was one in a million. He worked as an assistant manager at Peru Agway for 21 years. He then worked for Clark and Thew Orchard for 10 years and later retired from Peru Central School in 2002 following 17 years in the electrician and plumbing department. Roger and Shirley also cared for God's Acre Cemetery in Peru for 52 years. Following his retirement from the cemetery he was extremely proud that his grandson, Barry Harrigan took over where he left off, and is now the caretaker. In addition to his employments mentioned, Roger made many friends by always lending a hand and helping people out whenever they needed him.
Roger has been our keeper, friend, and an excellent provider. He was the love of our lives. Anyone that knew him, knows how powerful and strong a man he was. He was always one step ahead of everyone as far as getting things accomplished. Roger was a firm believer that you don't put off for tomorrow what you can do today.
Roger was an amazing father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He loved spoiling each and every one of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sending them home with treats after every visit. Roger was not a man of many words, but the love in his eyes and his facial expressions made up for his lack of words.
Roger and Shirley have three children, Jerry Brooks, Randy Brooks and wife April and Tammy Harrigan and husband Brian; nine very fortunate grandchildren, Nicole Harrigan, Barry Harrigan and wife Marie, Brooke Harrigan, Brittney Johnson and husband Nolan, Kevin Mendofic, Brianna Brooks, Kyle Mendofic, Keagan Brooks, and Desitini Bresette; eight great-grandchildren he had the pleasure of enjoying, Ryan, Jacob, Matthew, Tyler, and Hailey Harrigan, and Noah, Owen and Adelinn Johnson; and many nieces and nephews. Roger's family would also like to take this opportunity to thank Tracy Cayea who is a close family friend who has always been there for the family when she is needed.
He was predeceased by his parents.
Calling hours will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 13, 2013 at the Hamilton Funeral Home, 294 Mannix Road, Peru. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 14, 2013 at the Hamilton Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Dr. Kenneth Parker, officiating. Burial will follow in God's Acre Cemetery.
Donations in his memory may be made to Hospice of the North Country, 358 Tom Miller Road, Plattsburgh, NY, 12901 or the American Parkinson Disease Association, 135 Parkinson Avenue, Staten Island, NY, 10305.
The Brooks family would like to send their thanks and gratitude to Hospice of the North Country. Hospice nurses, Katie, Terry, Becky, Linda, Ellen, Beth, Cheryl, and Dr. Lang. You were all so generous and helpful during this difficult time. Hospice was an absolute blessing for our family and helped make our journey understandable. Thank you, for all you did for Roger.
Arrangements are in the care of the Hamilton Funeral Home, 294 Mannix Road, Peru.
To light an on line candle and offer condolences in the memory of Roger Brooks please visit www.hamiltonfuneralhome.com 643-9055
