Obituary of Len Brooks

Eulogy 

We gather here to remember and celebrate the life of Richard Leonard Brooks, a man whose journey from the early waves of the Great Lakes in Windsor, Ontario, to the final peaceful moments in his favourite chair, has left an indelible mark on us all. Born on November 24, 1930, Len's adventurous spirit saw him join the Navy at the tender age of 14, a testament to his courage and determination. His military career was distinguished by a transition to the Army, where he was stationed in Chilliwack, BC, and where he earned numerous accolades, including Field Engineer and Steward Certifications, and St. John’s Ambulance First Aid.

Len's post-military life was no less remarkable. In Abbotsford, he continued to serve the community, safeguarding businesses with the same vigilance he once reserved for his country. His dedication to service organizations like The Eagles and The Matsqui Anavets clubs was unwavering, and his leadership shone brightly as he took on roles of increasing responsibility, culminating in his tenure as unit president.

The honours bestowed upon Len, including the Life Membership and the prestigious American Legion Friendship Award, are a reflection of a life lived in the service of others, a life that inspired friendship, respect, and admiration. Today, we honour a man who was not just a decorated veteran, but a pillar of his community, a steadfast friend, and a beloved family member. Richard Leonard Brooks, your legacy is a tapestry of service, leadership, and friendship that will continue to guide and inspire us. May you rest in peace, knowing that your life was a beacon of hope and strength to many.

Funeral Service Outline:

My name is Ken Zacharias and I’m Len Brooks oldest Grandson. I’m not the oldest grandchild. That would be my cousin Kim, who is way, way, older than me. When it comes to Len’s grandkids though, I’m pretty sure I was his favorite, and arguably, his best-looking one. It is an honor for me to be here today officiating this service.

Before we begin, I would like to ask that anyone who has brought phone with them, that you take a quick second to make sure that it is off or the notifications have been silenced, to ensure that we can be fully in this moment without any outside distractions.

We have gathered here today because a death has occurred. This moment we are sharing is part of an experience that has been happening since the dawn of humanity. People have created funeral rites to bid farewell to the departed and to show respect for the dead through a dignified ceremony. Whether you call it a Funeral or a Celebration of life, it serves the same purpose. In my world those two terms are interchangeable. They are both a gathering of people who have lost someone that meant something to them, who have come together to support each other and publicly express their feelings of loss and grief… This is a very important step in coming to grips with those feelings, surrounding the person who has died.

Death has gathered us here but really; we are here because of a life. The life of Richard Leonard Brooks. Everyone here has been touched by that life and you honor him with your presence today.

I think it’s really fascinating when we start to contemplate a person’s legacy and what they’ve left behind, when we move beyond the obvious, the material, estate things and all direct descendants. There are a lot of subtle ripples that have gone out in the world because of a single person. There are more lives that have been touched and groups and events he’s been a part of than I’ll ever know. What I do know though, is he leaves behind 21 grandkids, 16 great grandkids and 15 great great grandkids. Here I am, and grandfather of 3, speaking at MY grandfather’s memorial. I hope the same can happen for me one day.

I also know, that he had big part of making me the man I am today. One of my earliest memories I have of my grandparents is Grandma in the kitchen making Grandpa something to eat, and him singing a made-up song and grabbing her bottom. Their love for each other was always undisguised and watching them really defined my relationship goals growing up. Now, I too, enjoy grabbing my wife’s bottom every time she’s in the kitchen…   

When I think of my grandpa, three words that immediately come to mind are Honour – Duty – and Service. To me, those are the words that describe the core of his being. Of course, there are a lot of other words that can be used to describe WHAT he was, but I think those three words really sum up WHO he was.

I heard a quote from someone that stuck with me. It was “There is no higher calling, than to be in the service of others”. That makes me think of grandpa. It’s funny the things that can be passed down through genetics. On top of his ridiculously good looks, I also inherited that same dedication to be in service to others. I’m happiest when I’m outside of myself and putting other people first. I think that’s the reason I’ve become a funeral director and a proud Rotarian.

 I also noticed my son Gabe, as he grew up, would often randomly break out in song, just like grandpa used to. Things like that are all a part of his legacy, another generation with a little piece of him.

Grandpa loved his family and it was always important for him to stay in touch. He took the time and made the effort to travel up north to Quesnel, and even beyond, a couple times a year just so he could see us. He had a natural ability to make you feel special and let you know he cared.

Working in the funeral profession for years has given me a little insight to what we can expect moving forward. Losing a parent, grandparent, even after a long and full life, leaves an empty place in our hearts.  We remember the past and wonder how we will continue without that knowing smile, that calming voice, that ever-present belief that life is worth living and the holidays were that most im­portant time for family.

In the weeks and months to come there will be waves of emotions that will hit us at various times. Our first holiday season without grandpa will be especially tough. And throughout this first year of our grief, we will experience many firsts. There will be birthdays and family events… all of them will be the first time we’ve celebrated them without him. These firsts may bring on waves of emotions which, while they may bring sadness, they will also bring healing. I believe healing happens a little bit at a time, one storytelling at a time. We need to use all the firsts as opportunities to retell the story of Richard Leonard Brooks.

We are now the representatives and the ambassadors of his legacy. We are his future and his memories. Be kind and patient with one another and allow everyone the space to experience grief in the way that fits them best.

Accept your tears and expressions of loss. Accept the angels in human form who come along with a word, a hug or a memory to share. Help each other during those difficult times and remember, we are never truly dead until we are forgotten, so telling his story is a vital part of keeping him alive among us.

I am proud to be the grandson of Len Brooks. It is an absolute honour to be here with all of you today, to say our final goodbye. And I know, right now, with all my heart, that he’s gleefully groping grandma in heaven.