Charles L. Brooks

Our beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather Col. Charles “Chuck” Brooks (Ret.), 91, passed away September 9, 2012. He is survived by his beautiful wife of 63 years, Julie; his children, Michael and Wendy Brooks; his grandchildren, Jason Brooks and Adrienne Arnold; his great grandchildren, Jordan Brooks and Storrie Arnold, brother, Donald Brooks and friends too numerous to list.

During his 30 years of service in the United States Air Force, Chuck served through WW II, Korea and Vietnam. He often spoke of his many adventures traveling the world in service to his country including memorable time spent in Goose Bay, Labrador doing search and rescue work. He was also proud of his time spent as the ROTC Commandant at Virginia Polytechnic Institute. While he served his country with pride and enthusiasm, to him there was nothing more important than family and community.

After retiring from the military, Chuck took up permanent residence in Monument, Colorado and quickly became a pillar of the Tri-Lakes community. There are few in the community that remain untouched by his generous, loving and playful spirit. Working with children was especially important to this remarkable man and he spent many years volunteering his time at Palmer Lake Elementary School.

Family time was by far the most important aspect of Chuck’s life. He could think of no better way to spend his time than exploring life with his wife, his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Breakfasts where he would quiz the family on his word of the day or relate one of the many stories or poems he had stored in his considerable memory were a highlight of everyone’s week. Whether it was spending time golfing, coin collecting, fishing, rock hounding, exploring nature, storytelling or enjoying a Sushi lunch, Chuck truly relished life and enjoyed every minute to its fullest. As one family friend put it, “He was the man we all aspire to be.” There are not words for how much he will be missed.

A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at the Palmer Lake Town Hall, Sunday, September 16 at 2:00 p.m.