Marion F. Brooks — or as the grandchildren referred to him, “Grumpy” —died on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2017, at the age of 90.
Born in 1927 to Hobert and Nina Brooks, he was the second of five children with an older sister Nina Jean, younger brothers Merle and Jerry, and then little sister Linda. He graduated from Mt. Baker High School. Marion went to work for Columbia Cement Plant beginning in maintenance and later as a welder before retiring after 28 years. His younger coworkers enduread his witty poetry and advice, referring to him as “Dad.”
Marion married Voleene Burch in 1949 and in 2009 they celebrated their 60 years together. They had four children: Lee (Arlene) Brooks of Bellingham, Larry (Jennie) Brooks of Sumas, Nancy Brooks of Bellingham, and Judy (Tony) Bakke of Lynden.
Marion enjoyed taking his family on fishing trips and spending time with his sons and grandsons hunting. He was known for writing poetry, so that he was often referred to as “The Poet.”
He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, two brothers, a sister and two grandsons, Eddie Brooks and Bobby Brooks.
He is survived by his children; nine grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and numerous other relatives.
You are invited to join family and friends for a 2 p.m. memorial service on Saturday, Nov. 25, in Gillies Funeral Home followed by graveside committal in Lakeside Cemetery northeast of Lynden.
Please share your condolences and memories in the online guestbook at www.gilliesfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Lynden.
