Andrew followed in his Father's footsteps by excellence and integrity! When his Father lost his battle with cancer, I was in the middle of moving from NJ to Bozeman, Montana. I called the Brooks residence to ask if I could visit his Father before I moved, Andrew answered the phone to explain his Father had passed. I told him that I was working with his Father when my own Father passed and when I came to work the morning after my Father's passing, Perry asked me what was wrong. I told him the story and he said to me, "you Father died like a King, we should all hope to go that way". I told Andrew the story and told him that his Father was a King! Andrew told me there would be a graveside service and if I'd like I could attend. I raced up the turnpike to attend and by the time I got to the exit, it was to late. So, I went on to Manhattan, to walk 5th Ave and eat at my favorite deli next door to Perry's office! Later in the week I called their house and was invited to visit with family. I made food and drove up to visit. Sitting with Andrew, Janet, an Aunt and his wife telling stories about the man. My story was the same as theirs, a generous man who would help anyone who wanted to gain knowledge! The good work we do will not be forgotten, but live on forever! 

A Father and his sons legecy! Condolences to Andrews family and grateful blessings  for Andrews intelligence, hard work ethics toward saving the human race!

Andrew and I lived in the same dorm from 1988-1989.  As mentioned by someone else, clearly the only person on campus with trained doves in his room.  You could tell back then that Andrew was going to achieve great things.  Last I saw him was in Rochester when I was practicing law in Pittsburgh and moving up to Syracuse.  I met with him one trip on my way up.  And he was the same as when I first met him for the first time on floor one  of "UHall 1".  Sincerest condolences to his family.  

As a sales rep, I was touched by Andrew's professionalism and kindness as I sold lab equipment products to his expanding lab while at URMC.   He used to tell me how good he was at golf as his only spare time was on the links.  This could had been an additional reason why he took the position at Rutgers.  He could see the golf course right outside his office window.  Andrew was a relentless, hard working researcher with a great attitude and was always respectful.   RIP Andrew as you will be missed and my condolences to the family and relatives.  


Without Dr Brooks fabulous discovery my grandson would not be able to get Covid tested! The spit test saved him from anguish as he has autism 
So grateful and so sorry and sad about his untimely passing
Baruch Dayan Emet 


I cannot think of a scientist that I admired more than Andy Brooks. Unfortunately, I never directly work with Andy; however, I always envisioned such an opportunity in our future.  So, I feel truly blessed for the collaborations and interactions in which we did share.  Andy was a change-agent extraordinaire, never being satisfied with the status quo in the laboratory sciences and diagnostics. His memory will be a reminder to  many scientists and laboratorians to be brave in our work and lives. May the many wonderful memories of Andy comfort his mother and family's souls.
Jennifer Ohayon

My deepest sympathy to Andy's family and friends.  I knew Andy at Cornell.  He was the only person I knew that had a dove in his dorm room.  All of my memories of him are joyful and sweet and I am grateful to have known him.  May his memory be a blessing.

I met Andy back in the 80's during my undergraduate studies at Cornell. He was a funny, kind person who made us laugh and entertained us with magic tricks.  His life after Cornell was clearly filled with amazing achievements. I am so saddened to hear of his passing.  My condolences to his family and friends.

I did not know him, but I feel a terrible sense of loss.  We should all bless Andy for the work he has done.
My condolences to his family.

I am so sad to hear of Andrew’s passing, and astonished. I recall his warmth and energy throughout our childhood together. Sitting next to him in Hebrew school carpool while he practiced his magic show patter into my ear, insisting I watch him practice close-up card tricks, playing stupid padless tackle football across from his house, or otherwise running around Lakeridge, Beth Ahm and Cedar Ridge, he brought plenty of joy, smiles and mischief. I hadn’t spoken to him since Rochester, sadly, but am very glad that he was doing excellent science, contributing his ingenuity and energy for others and his communities. Memories of him are a blessing and window into what life offers. Such a painful loss. May his memory continue to comfort his mom, all his family and the rest of us who knew him. 

My mom and Andrew's dad Perry dated each other when they were in high school.  The Brooks family moved to the next town and also joined Temple Beth Ahm so our parents reconnected.  I have fond childhood memories of spending time with Andrew and his sister Janet as their family's home in Old Bridge,  New Jersey.  Andrew was such a nice boy.  He was very kind, really smart and adorable.  Andrew was one month older than me.  We played together when we were about 7 or 8 years old. Andrew and I went to hebrew school together at Temple Beth Ahm.  All the kids really liked him.  I hadn't seen Andrew since we were about 14.  Our families lost touch over the years.  I had heard that Andrew went into medicine.  I read a few months ago about the saliva test for Covid 19 at Rutgers but didn't connected Andrew to the development.   When I read online in the Patch that he had suddenly passed away my heart sank,  It's always so sad when a childhood friend passes away.  My heart goes out to his mom Phyllis, sister Janet and his wife and daughters.  May the beautiful memories you shared over the years bring you peace during your grief.  

On behalf of Maine Camp Experience, I'd like to extend our deepest condolences on Andy's passing. Dr. Brooks provided counsel to our community of 30+ Maine overnight camps leading up to summer 2020 and again in fall 2020  for 2021. We were fortunate to have his time, insights, confidence, and expertise to help educate our camps. He was a tremendous asset to us all in the fight against Covid-19.  We are thankful to have known Dr. Brooks and very sad and sorry to lose this smart, dedicated, thoughtful, passionate visionary. May his memory be for a blessing.

I had the pleasure of meeting Andy on a trip we did together in Japan and Korea visiting Biobanks  2 years ago.  I was always amazed, besides at how brilliant and knowledgeable he was at how generous and down to earth he was.  My heart felt condolescences to his family. R.I.P Andy.

One of our many favorite memories was the opportunity to be together at Penn State University with Andy, Jil and Lauren with a pre-game tailgate and celebrating the occasion with Jell-O shots.  This was Andy and Jil's first time to Penn State and we were treated with both Lauren's presence, her friends and our extended family.   Our love for Andy is immense and the opportunity to share family time together was priceless!

Tracey and Dusty Tenney

I remember working at Rutgers RUCDR a few years prior to Andy joining and bringing his expertise in robotics, after which he became one of the directors and then shortly after, the Chief Operations Officer of RUCDR Infinite Biologics. Everything Andy did at the RUCDR was for the improvement of how things were done and he succeeded at every turn. He pushed for and implemented a cutting-edge database for tracking samples and processing. He completely changed the storage system of biomaterials for the better. Andy always pushed and promoted doing things in a way which made sense to him and which we ultimately came to realize was truly the best way to do those things. And, he moved us toward a place where so many manually accomplished tasks were updated to be accomplished through the use of automated technology. This never caused our organization to cut jobs. On the contrary, Andy’s implementations kept up with Dr. Jay Tischfield’s reputation of always growing and ever-expanding the RUCDR.
As a boss, Andy pushed his employees to jump higher. We didn’t stop to ask how high, we just knew to keep jumping because that’s what Andy wanted. He was an unstoppable force and always kept things moving forward. I’m proud to be part of his vision for IBX and the future of what RUCDR started at Rutgers University. I’m equally proud to have had the chance to work with Andy and to be part of the critical Covid saliva testing and associated analysis we’ve continued to do non-stop, since the early days of the pandemic.
It has been truly heart-warming to read all of the memories and highlights of so many people who knew Andy and were touched by his energy and one-of-a kind humanity. As long as I’m part of IBX, I’ll continue to push myself to live up to Andy’s expectations. 
To Andy's family and friends, you’re in my thoughts and prayers. I hope that your grieving is short and that your best memories of Andy live on!

While I had met Andy a few times before, and met him many times later with TMRW Life Sciences, the defining moment for me was a meeting in Shanghai at the 2019 ISBER annual meeting that set me on a new direction in my professional life.
   I attended Andy’s talk there just when I had started working with TMRW as a consultant.  It was this talk, and a subsequent lunch with him that made me fully realize the potential of TMRW, and change a direction.
   He had the gift of seeing how he could help humanity, but also how the solution would offer investment opportunities.  And he knew how to commercialize the solutions, how to make them actually become reality.
   But most importantly, he was willing to share his vision without hesitation, without ego.   It was his ability and willingness to engage in a conversation, to be present in the moment and make a lasting impression in any one to by fortunate enough to have have that opportunity.   I am grateful for having had that opportunity with him.


There aren't adequate words to describe Andy, or the impact he had on everyone he met. He was a true visionary.  I worked for Andy for many years, but more closely over the past 2. I am forever grateful for his guidance, mentorship, his trust in me, and for never accepting less that my absolute best. Andy forced me (and everyone around him) to dig deep, and find strength within myself I didn't know existed. If I ever needed anything, he was there for me. In particular, I remember one night, when everything was going wrong in the lab in the middle of the night. I called Andy, and when he called me back at 3 AM, I felt so relieved to hear his voice, and have someone to guide me through. I wasn't alone any more. That's how it always was, Andy was always there. I am a better scientist, and a better person because of him.  As I move forward, I know I will continually ask myself "what would Andy do".  I will miss his late night and weekend calls, brainstorming with him, and his questions about anything I said. All of us were so lucky to have the time we did with him.  I hope we can all make him proud, as we work towards bringing his vision of IBX to fruition. 

The world lost a true hero. His ingenuity and vision were incredible to behold. He has without a doubt guided immeasurable research and scientific discoveries.

I send my deepest sympathies to his family, and friends. You are all in my heart.

I had the pleasure of knowing Andy for more than 25 years as both a colleague and a good friend.  He was smart, funny, and warm hearted.  His drive, intelligence, and depth of caring were amazing.  He also could always make me laugh.  He went above and beyond whenever I needed his help.  His scientific and business accomplishments will have an enduring legacy.  He helped many, many people and he made the world a better place.  I will really miss him.  My thoughts and deepest sympathies to his family.

The world has lost a true visionary and a bright light.  Our hearts are hurting but the memories will be cherished.  Deepest sympathy to Andy's family as you navigate this terrible time.

Dear Phyllis, Janet, and Andy's family,
Our sincere condolences on the loss of Andy.  I have so many wonderful memories from growing up across the street from Andy with my brothers Scott and Adam.  Andy's warmth, kindness, and sense of humor will be missed.  I will always remember Andy's smile and his unfailing ability to make me laugh.  May his memory be a blessing.   All our love, Jay

We are deeply saddened about Andy's sudden death.  It is a big loos for us and everyone who had the pleasure to meet, to work and to learn from him.  We all are loosing a brilliant scientist,  tremendous leader with great visions and passion. We feel so lucky that we got to know him.

He will be deeply missed! 

Our thoughts and prayers are with Andy´s family.

With deepest sympathy,

Carola and the whole PerkinElmer ARS Team

I only met Dr Brooks (Andy) in October 2020 when I joined the IBX team in Minnesota, but immediately admired his passion, drive and enthusiasm for his work and his team at IBX.  As busy as he was he always had time for a quick call and word of advice.  He challenged us to do better and be better and we will continue to do just that so his work will live on.  He will be greatly missed and forever admired.

My deepest sympathies to his wife, his mother, his daughters and all his extended family and friends.   

Rest in Peace Andy.

Andy was one of a kind. His amazing intellect, beautiful warmth and generosity and global scientific vision were extraordinary. 
I had the privilege of knowing Andy for seven years and you always felt part of his adventures through his sharing of stories, love of life and humour.
It was lovely to see his total adoration for Jil and his three daughters and Andy was always thinking of his friends and family wherever he travelled.
Whilst biobank consulting in Melbourne (Australia), there was always time for finding presents to take back home to those he loved.
He made the world seem that much smaller and more connected through his countless networks, endless energy and passion to make a difference.
My deepest condolences go out to his family and friends - he has a special place in so many hearts.


It was truly a pleasure working with Andy. He will be deeply missed. What an amazing person and what a remarkable life! 
We feel so lucky that we got to know him.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Andy´s family.

With deepest sympathy,
Lothar, Uwe and the whole PerkinElmer chemagen team


Andy always had a big heart and took care of those in his extended family. I’ve known Andy nearly my whole life and was fortunate to be a part of that group. He grew up next door to me in Old Bridge and I babysat him and his sister Janet when they were younger. I celebrated his bar mitzvah with him. Later, when my brother, sister, and I came home on break from college, we would have Andy and Janet come over and decorate the Christmas tree at my parents’ house while we drank wine because we didn’t want to do it. I took Andy skiing as a teenager in Upstate New York while I was at college at RIT, though he was disappointed to find out it was strictly a skiing visit and we weren’t going to any frat parties.

We were neighbors again in Rochester when he lived in Gananda. My husband and I moved our family there and lived just one street over from Andy. He helped look after my kids sometimes and would often visit, driving his golfcart over with Lauren and Hannah sitting on his lap. One year when my parents visited Rochester for Christmas, my father became ill and had to go in to Strong Hospital. Andy was doing his residency there at the time and he regularly checked in on my father and kept us all apprised of how he was doing outside of visiting hours.

Andy was always a mentor for my daughter in her science studies. When my son was looking into pursuing his PhD, Andy worked to find out how funding and other application decisions were made in the humanities, with his guidance helping my son to pick a school and just recently complete his own PhD. Even when he was busy with his own important work, Andy found the time to help those he cared about and did a lot of behind-the-scenes work on their behalf. Andy was like a little brother to me, then he grew into a man, and we became lifelong friends for 40+ years. I’m going to miss him. My heart breaks for Phyllis, Janet, Jil, Lauren, Hannah, and Dani.


My deepest sympathies to all of Andrew's family, friends and colleagues.
I was so fortunate to meet Andrew in connection with his work with Monash University which led to the establishment of an important new biobanking facility in Melbourne.  Andrew's involvement was a key reason for the government's support of this project and his legacy will endure as the facility aids important clinical advances in the future.
We will always be grateful that Andrew generously donated his time and efforts to Australia and I know he will be sorely missed by all those that had the privilege to work with him.
Our heartfelt wishes to all.
Simon Rabl
Dept Jobs, Precincts and Regions, Victorian Government

So many great memories have been shared with the consistent themes including fun, generosity and wicked smart.  I have many similar and shared experiences during our BioStorage Technologies / BioProcessing Solutions / RUCDR times together. Perhaps, a notable example that encompasses his natural state of generosity and accessibility was during hurricane Sandy. He worked around the clock to contribute however he could.  We worked closely together on how to save scientific collections in the New York City area but he also offered up his house, his mother’s house, etc. to shelter the many out of town workers who were working to save the collections. He was a force of nature and I am confident that his legacy will continue to impact science. Thank you, Andy and condolences to all family members. 

Andy was a fabulous guy and a devoted father, We met at Bayonne and was a man I always loved to see, to play with, and to laugh with.
He was humble, caring and a special selfless Dr.
I also saw his paternal side when his daughter was going to Vega, and wanted to make sure she was going to be good. My daughter was a counselor and he thanked me profusely when I said Ava would look out for her.
I am terribly saddened for his family and friends.
He was a man of men.
You all should be proud of him....he deserves it.
D

I had the pleasure of knowing Andy for almost 12 years.  First as a client, then as a boss and lastly as a friend.  His innovation and intense personality helped to drive my personal and professional success.  He put a lot of faith in the abilities of his entire organization.  He was a tremendous mentor, listener and story-teller.  I will truly miss him.  I will miss our conversations about dessert and steakhouses, new technologies and automation.  Gone too soon, but never forgotten.  We will honor his vision for a prosperous future at IBX.  My deepest sympathies for his family.

Our hearts go out to Dr. Andrew Brooks’ family, friends, and associates at this tragic time of his loss. We were fortunate enough to work with him for the past few years and cannot thank him enough for everything that he taught us. A true beacon of knowledge and wisdom, his grace will dearly be missed.

Deepest Condolences from the PerkinElmer Dx Marketing Team


I know it has been a few years since Andrew and I have spoken but he will always hold a special place  in my heart and be a big part of many of my childhood (and some grown up) memories. 
 The world has lost a truly special person with his passing. My love and condolences to Phyllis, Janet and Jil and his girls during this time. 

I met Andy when I was visiting my friend Laura who worked for Dr. Pasternak.   Andy came over to the elevator and chatted me up and then  pursued me with flowers and calls.  His charm, intelligence and good humor won me over and we began dating.  I will never forget him rollerblading through the streets of Manhattan with my dry cleaning in hand to our shared apartment. 
 Andy gave me a beautiful golden bear necklace set with diamonds and emeralds and engraved with our initials for my 23 birthday because I called him Andy Bear.  His Father Perry, a diamond setter had made it himself. 
Not long after we went our separate ways. 
I’m impressed but not surprised by all his accomplishments.  
Rest In Peace Andy Bear. 
Daryl Katz 

My name is Erin Levengood, and I am the Relationship Manager at Merck for the Brooks Life Sciences and Infinity Biologix relationship.  Merck is deeply saddened by the loss of Dr. Andy Brooks.  Many of us here at Merck worked directly with Andy.  He was very fun to interact with and was a cutting edge scientist and business man.  
I have very fond memories working with him.  My most memorable experience was touring the NHL hall of fame.  It was very entertaining to watch all of us try to score goals or defend goals!  Andy was so much fun on that trip! 

Our condolences to Andy's family both at home and the IBX/BLS family.  



Dear Brooks Family ... I wanted to share my Sincere Sympathy, Condolences, and Prayers on the loss of your dearly beloved "Andrew Ira Brooks. "

I read the article about Mr. Brooks'transition and development of the Covid testing. In his honor, I thank his precious Family for the rapid breakthrough and his many other fine contributions to research. 

It is very difficult to understand, but God is the One who appoints each moment in time.  Andrew's life has so many beautiful memories that will warm hearts and shine lovely cheeks along the way.  God's loving embrace of comfort for the dear Family and Friends. 

Rest in Heavenly Peace, Andrew Ira Brooks


We know Andy as the father of our beloved camper, Dani.  Our hearts break for Dani and her family, especially in a time when so much has already been lost, and we cannot be there to hug and comfort Dani, along with so many who love Andy and his family.  

Our relationship with Andy evolved in the early months of the pandemic.  He generously shared his time and knowledge with us and our summer camp colleagues. There is no doubt his covid testing breakthrough shed light on a safer pathway through the pandemic. Surely his hard work saved countless lives.

Dr. Andy Brooks is one of the first heroes of the Covid-19 pandemic. More importantly he was a loving father.  We are proud to have known Andy and will honor his life by doing all we can to help Dani find healing and joy.

I was Andy's administrative assistant at the University of Rochester's Functional Genomics Center. I assisted with the clerical functions involving AmDEC. I kept his calendar on my refrigerator at home so that I would be ready when he called (at all hours). He said I could turn a plane around in mid-air as I handled all his last-minute travel itineraries. Yes he was a demanding person to work for, but I was honored to be a part of the great work he was involved in. If he considered you a friend, there was nothing he wouldn't do for you. I have a wonderful letter of reference from him that I hold dear.
My deepest condolences to his family, colleagues and friends. I got to know  his beautiful children Lauren and Hannah and experienced  first hand his deep devotion to them.
The world lost a genius. I lost more than a boss, I lost a friend.

I’m shocked and saddened to hear of Andy’s passing.  I have known Andy since he was in Rochester.  A great person who loved science, cars and his family.  He was comfortable in his own skin and a great human being.  He loved a challenge and wasn’t afraid to voice his opinion.  So many people loved and respected him.  I was privileged to have known him and shared stories and beers with him.  We miss you Andy and hope to see you again on the other side...

Andy will truly be missed.   He has definitely left a hole in everyones hearts.  When my father passed away, he called me and told me to make sure I continue to share memories and remember the good times so that is what I will do here.  

I have been lucky enough to work with Andy for the last 15 years and to be one of the few sales reps in my early days that he liked (and I wore that as a badge of honor).  I look back and am thankful that I have been able to work more closely with him again this past year.  I will never forget him calling me in early March at 11pm and telling me to go in front of my computer so he can show me his BEAUTIFUL COVID data.  He was so excited and proud of his team.  Weekly we would talk about new testings, continued expansion of IBX, the difference his team was making in the world, what he needed to scale, etc.  I know we will all work so hard to keep his dream alive.  

I will miss sitting in his office and hearing him yell for Judy.  I will miss sitting with him and sharing stories about his kids (he loved all of you and was SO proud).  I will miss him telling me all about Jil with a huge smile on his face and why I should get on a plant based diet.   I will miss him calling at 6am and saying - Kel, need you to fix this. I will miss him challenging us all to make us better at what we did as we all tried to keep up with him.  

We are so sorry for your loss and please know you will be in our thoughts and prayers.  

Rest in Peace
The Howard Family


Our sincere condolences for the loss of Dr. Andrew Brooks.  He was brilliant and an incredible scientist.  His dedication and contributions to science were remarkable, and we are very proud to be one of his employees at IBX.  He will be missed by All of Us.

In the world of genomics , all roads lead to Andy. 

I am devastated by his loss - he was a force of nature, a brilliant scientist and commercial brain, a friend and a wonderful collaborator.   I can't imagine our industry without Andy in it.  
Every call I had with him he would tell me fantastic stories of his adventures.   The world lost a legend in science way too soon.

My deepest condolences go to Andy's family - you will be in my prayers over the coming months.   



I didn't know Dr. Brooks, z"l, personally, but I want his family to know how very grateful the entire Jewish community is for all his work, especially on the saliva test for COVID-19, which is one of the reasons many Jewish children in New Jersey and elsewhere are able to be back in school this year. His expertise will be remembered by the community; his goodness will be remembered by them, too, for it is doubtful that without this quality of kindness he would have been involved in the kind of work he was.  May his memory be for a blessing, and May G‑d console his family and friends, together with all mourners of Zion and Jerusalem. Susie Rosenbluth, The Jewish Voice and Opinion, Englewood, NJ

I will always remember the generous human being who was full of energy, inspiration and kindness and I will treasure our last get together at MarkJoseph. I will miss your support and guidance. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. Rest in peace Andy.

What an amazing individual and a loss to science and the world. Andy was the one person that cheered me up a week after my father died. We enjoyed drinks and a ton of shellfish half a world away at a Sydney fish market. Thank You Andy! RIP

Andy,

Rest In Peace forever. You will be sorely missed. You left us too soon. The world lost a shining star, a brilliant scientist, a kind mentor and above all a wonderful human being. We lost our rock, our fearless leader, and constant source of inspiration at IBX. 

I knew Andy for a short span of 3 months since I joined IBX, but he had a profound impact on me.  I knew I wanted to work with Andy right after our first phone conversation. Andy was my boss and I will always remember the way he welcomed me to IBX. Your voice and guidance still resounds in my ears and I’ll cherish our interaction for the rest of my life. There was so much that we had planned and I’ll now make sure to work with the team to bring your vision to fruition. We will always ask the question, what would Andy do in this situation? 

May you rest in internal peace and keep an ever watchful eye on us. You’ll be deeply missed and I extend my my deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the family. 


Andy you’ll be missed by so many! You saw potential where other did not, you saw opportunity where others could not. You influenced so many with great ideas and backed it up with hard work, day in, and day out. I so enjoyed our conversations, my thoughts and prays for you and your family. Rest in peace… 

The world has lost a kind, generous, intelligent and humorous man. Andy you travelled with me, taught me, made me laugh and assisted me in business and for that i am forever grateful and will never forget you. 

I will remember you as the fun loving jovial giant, and the picture of you in Japan says it all.

Always remembered and never forgotten, your legacy will last generations.

I will miss you 

I am so saddened to hear of Andy's passing.  Although, we haven't spoken in many years, I have fond memories of Cookie from high school where he even offered to buy me a pet hamster if I would name it after him!  His farewell to me took up an entire page in our senior yearbook and I still look back on it and laugh at what he said!  RIP Andy.  You did the world proud!


Andy is going to be terribly missed. He guided our country through the pandemic with Covid-testing. He is an inspiration to science, a true artist of genomics. No one's mind can even come close to Andy's and what he had planned for the future of testing. Working with Andy was a wonderful experience and will live with me forever. I send my prayers and love to his family.

Warm Wishes
Michele Wispelwey

There are no words to describe Andy other than I never knew someone who was so amazing with what his mission was with work, yet the kindest most thoughtful  mentor and more importantly friend.  When I met Jil I knew he found the one and I am so happy for the times we had together.
The world lost an amazing person and I am so happy I was able to have him in my life. 

Andy,

You were an inspiration to many. Your endless enthusiasm and passion for everything you did was infectious.


You were such a caring, kind and compassionate person, nothing was ever to much trouble, including marching me through aiport security at JFK when I was going to miss my flight home (everyone knew you by your first name!)

Over the last few years I really enjoyed working with you on some exciting projects and learning about your plans with Robin for the future with IBX.  I remember sharing the stage with you at a presentation in Arizona, commenting "yes your slides are OK James but let's use mine!" 

It was great to share an afternoon in March with you just before all our lives changed forever.   Your legacy for everything you achieved in our industry will live on and the more recent work to fight COVID was visionary.  

You will be forever in my heart and thoughts. 
Whenever I'm struggling to make a decision I will ask myself what would Andy say? 


RIP in peace my friend,  thank you for all the guidance and support.

Sending my deepest condolences to all Andy's family at this difficult time.

James 



Your innovation inspired the world. 
Your brilliance improved lives. 
Your mentorship challenged us. 
Your friendship was lasting. 
Your vision will live on.

I had the pleasure to meet Andy in 2018.  From our first conversation, it was easy to see his intellect, care for others, and humorous  approach.   He had the inate ability to relate to all people and bring a smile to those he interacted with.

I was truly saddened to hear of his passing and will miss his kindness, brilliance, and leadership.  My sincere condolences to his wife and family.

The life science industry lost a legend.  Andy's enormous impact on science, companies, people, and the industry will live on for years to come.  He was visionary, a source of  knowledge, entrepreneurial - truly one of a kind.  He will be greatly missed.

I'm deeply saddened by Andy's passing and my heart goes out to his wife, mom, children, and extended family.  

My heart is filled with sorrow upon hearing the sad news regarding Dr. Andrew, his kind face  will remain forever with all members at Qatar Biobank. It was an honor to have known such great person. May his soul Rest In Peace and our condolences to Jil and his family. 

When I needed really good guidance and advice relating to my stem cell projects, Andy always returned my emails and or made time, despite being super busy, to discuss in person.  

He was always polite and professional and I really enjoyed knowing he was “there” helming the scientific progress of the RUCDR.  

I will miss his presence, however his influence at Rutgers, will be felt for many years to come.

Andy, I want to thank you for the memories. We met in 2012 and I remember the training about DNA extraction, to which I furiously took notes. From that moment, all I did is learn from you -  every call, every client, I tried to write it all down and it's taken us on a great journey. We've worked since then to impact clients' research, support clinical studies and most recently, public health with COVID testing.  

You accomplished so much in your life and you cared so well for your family, friends and colleagues. What I remember are the characteristics that he embodied - integrity, passion, honesty, generosity, intelligence, all while having an incredible amount of fun. Thanks for caring about me -- sending me kits when I got COVID, calling me late on a Friday night to personally give me results, putting the fear of God in me not to leave my house while also making me laugh. 

It feels so hard to say goodbye but I've got the memories and I'll keep moving forward, always learning and helping others.  Sending my love and prayers to Jil and your family. 

I first met Andy in Gavril Pasternak's lab in early 1993, and was struck by his kindness, generosity and humour.  He was a goofball in the best possible way, and could find the fun in even the most bizarre or serious of circumstances.  Since we lost Gavril not so long ago as well, I love the thought of the two of them kibitzing away about this game we call life.  My deepest condolences go out to his family.  May his memory be a blessing.

Andy & I met in 1993 when I hired the entertainment company he worked for at the time for a large event I coordinated for Colgate Palmolive.  He was the tallest Barney I'd ever met yet the kids loved him!  He and I instantly hit it off and have stayed friends over the years.  Life took us in different directions but we always managed to stay in touch.  

I was profoundly saddened to hear of his passing and will miss his smile, kindness, and intelligence.  My heart goes out to his wife and family.   

I met first Andy when I joined UMDNJ in 2006 and was immediately impressed by intellect and magnetic personality. He was an amazing person, great colleague and a brilliant scientist. His cutting edge research and insights greatly impacted what was then the emerging field of genomics. His contributions to developing the best available test for COVID-19 speak to his quest for excellence in every challenge he accepted in life. Andy saved the lives of so many during the pandemic. He worked tirelessly for the common good, but always took time to talk about his family and friends. Andy’s ever present smile, quick wit and good-natured humor always made my days brighter. I will miss his friendship and discussing our shared passion for genomics, new technologies and Porches. Please accept my condolences for your tragic loss. Andy leaves us all with a broken heart, but also with many happy memories and the joy of having had the pleasure to know him.   

I first met Andy in 2012 through work and instantly realized he was someone I would never forget. I grew to both admire and respect Andy for  many reasons, but two of them stand out to me in his drive and giving.

Andy's drive affected everyone around him that was up for his challenge. There may not always have been total agreement, but you also knew he sincerely listened and  weighed everyone's opinions carefully.

Andy's humility isn't something I fully appreciated at first. I soon realized, though, how such an incredibly accomplished, intelligent, and driven man was even more giving, kind, and present that the other qualities combined.

That same drive and giving nature are clearly instilled in those carrying out Andy's dream and legacy with IBX. My deepest condolences to Andy's friends and family.

Andy was a true force of nature... I know many say it, but I witnessed it as an alliance partner, a student and friend and, and came to share his dream by joining IBX. I used to say to him: "Thor, ready to bring that hammer down?", when he'd get that look in his eye that people best come on-board. Just priceless. So few have that ability.

His intelligence, wit, science and business acumen were remarkable. But what I will remember and miss the most is his ability to care so deeply for his people, to protect them, but also demand only the very best from them; how he loved Jil, his girls, sister and was a fierce protector of his mom, and passionate about cooking and hosting! And was ready to offer his home so willingly... I'll miss my 6am text saying if I had time for a quick call... 

We will honor him the best way he showed us -by example-, working hard, giving all you have while having fun in life whenever you can. Andy, you left such an imprint to cherish in my family and I. Go in peace and watch over us. Your legacy lives on in all of us but most especially in Jil, your girls, and your family. We'll see you at the 1st tee again my friend... 

My good friend Andy, we will miss you. You were a visionary and an innovator in the #biobanking field and well respected from all of us. You were a friend. we shared many experiences and the same vision in #Biobanking #business including the same love for #italiansportcars. We like to remember you with the foto below were you drove us back to the hotel in NY with your convertible #Maserati. You will always be remembered for your professional skills, vision and smile.
Rest in peace
Ida, Andrea and Pasquale De Blasio

Andy's passing has been devastating news for his colleagues at Rutgers. Andy was unique, full of new ideas, hard working, brilliant, enterpreneurial, smart, collegial, generous with his time and resources. So full of life! Anybody that has worked with him is shocked and saddened. It is an irreplaceable loss for our community. I hope that his family will find some solace from the outpouring of grief and respect for Andy that we are witnessing. 

I've had the distinct pleasure of working with Andy over the last several years.  I can say with certainty I've never met someone so passionate, driven, and talented in his scientific pursuits along with his ability to connect with people.  I learned a great deal from Andy, and had a number of fun experiences traveling together professionally.  What a loss for the scientific community, for his family, and for all those who were touched by his amazing passion for life.   

I have known Dr Brooks for little over a year now. He was my boss at IBX, and we would talk multiple times a day, almost everyday, about our various projects. The phone call always started as your boss calling you, but ended like how a conversation with a friend would end. He always ended the call saying  'Alright, talk to you later buddy'.  For last many months our day practically started with hearing his voice on our daily morning call. 
He truly was a force, a humble human being, with a great sense of humor. I learned more from him during my 1 year at IBX then I did in last 10 years of my career. I have not seen an individual so focused and clear in direction before in my life. 
His voice still resonates in my ears and will keep on resonating, as moving forward anything we do at IBX will start with the thought 'What would Andy do?' 
He will be dearly missed everyday. This is an unexpected loss which feels like losing a family member. 

The Kopel family is deeply saddened by the loss of our neighbor and former Board member. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family.  We lived on the same floor for years and never knew of his great accomplishments, a testament to his low key personality. We thank him posthumously for all he did for humanity and the world has surely lost a brilliant man far too soon!


Andy was a friend and colleague for the past 20 years and it was an honor to know and work with him on his many incredible  projects.  He was truly brilliant and a genuinely kind person.  He will be greatly missed. 

Boruch Dayan HaEmes, Sarah and I are so sad to hear of your great loss. What a most loving and giving person. His life was indeed a great blessing for you, your family, our Rutgers Chabad family, and the entire family of Israel.  May his life and memory bring solace and bracha, and may Hashem comfort you during this most difficult time.  המקום ינחם אתכם בתוך שאר אבלי ציון וירושלים

Andy was a true original and unlike any other, as the posted comments attest.  He put his absolute full attention into whatever it was he set his mind to, or whomever he was engaged with.  He had energy and a vision that compelled you to follow it, willingly.

Trust in relationships was magnificently important to him, in an almost old-fashioned way, and as the years went by that quality stood out by its uniqueness and rarity in this world.  From that quality, what I got from Andy was authenticity, again, uncommon in this world.

His ability to so clearly see the science that needed to be done and equally clearly see the business needed to drive that science, and then actually realize both, was uncanny.  The quality of what came from that was always of the highest (which he pursued passionately) and has set standards of excellence that many have come to depend on, and of course still do.  He was a doer par excellence.   I miss him.

I have known Andy for a little over 10 years.  We worked on numerous things together not the least of which was the launch of Infinity BiologiX.  This was Andy's dream that we had worked on for the last 5 years.  I am still incredibly stunned by his loss.

We traveled the world together on business.  I used to finish his sentences and I learned more about molecular biology than I ever thought possible.

I was blessed with the opportunity to attend Andy and Jil's wedding.  I'll never forget that.

Andy, we'll miss you dearly, but we will all continue on with your legacy here at IBX.


I knew Andy when we were kids growing up in Old Bridge. Coincidentally my dad was childhood friends with Andy’s dad. I have fond memories of a truly nice kid, and as others have stated—a passion for magic. It was amazing to read about Andy’s professional accomplishments and all that he gave back to this world. Most importantly he will always be remembered as a good person who was loved dearly. May his memory be a blessing to all of you. My sincere condolences. 

I have had the fortune to work with Andy since I started this last chapter of my work life.  He has been a kind and insightful colleague, willing to share his knowledge, open to dialogue and growth, and a welcome partner in the area of genetic/genomic testing and COVID-19 testing.  His impact cannot be overstated, and he will be sorely missed in our community.

Wishing him ease in this journey and for his family and those who knew and loved him sending prayers for peace and comfort in this terrible time of loss.

Travel well, friend.

I had the chance to work with Andy as a collaborator. He came to visit us many times in Qatar. I have learnt a lot thanks to him. A great loss for all of us. What a lovely person he was. He will be missed by so many. My deepest condolences to all the family. I am praying for everyone

Deepest condolences to Andy's family and friends. I had the pleasure to work with Andy for almost a decade. His drive, energy and enthusiasm for science and his charm and wit will be greatly missed. The world is a less interesting place without Andy in it.  

I worked with Andy for 17 years, first as his boss and later as his partner.  I had the privilege to witness every day his intellect, work ethic and beneficent nature. We would joke about our ages and I noted that the 25-year difference made him more like one of my kids.  Indeed, I sometimes thought of him as a fourth son. 

I note a few of his contributions to science and mankind for those who may not be familiar. Andy’s career was distinguished by outstanding scholarship, service to the field of biomedicine, and business activities designed to improve human health. Most notably, in 2020 he led the effort to develop the Rutgers COVID-19 diagnostic assay, which received FDA emergency use authorization in March as the first approved saliva diagnostic and, a month later, the first of any test approved for home use. Since then, more than four million of these clinical tests have been performed, undoubtedly saving many lives, and providing a practical tool for pandemic control.

Andy was Research Professor in the Rutgers University Department of Genetics and Chief Operating Officer and Director of Technology Development of RUCDR Infinite Biologics (now Infinity BiologiX, with Andy as CEO).  Andy co-authored over 70 publications, several with over 1000 citations in the literature.  Moreover, he played a key role in providing consultation, biobanking and analytical services to many large research projects that have yielded important insights into the genomic causes of human diseases and the effects of environmental exposures. He will be remembered by the large cohort of scientists whose research he facilitated. 

Andy was a force for good and words are inadequate to describe how much I shall miss him as a friend and colleague.  Donna and I convey our deepest condolences to his family.  His memory is a blessing from a life cut too short, but I take some solace that I was privileged to know and enjoy him for a while.


I recall in kindergarten or first grade my parents saying that a new boy my age moved in across the street on Appletree Drive in Lakeridge.  I grabbed Lori Peltzman and we went over to introduce ourselves to Andy.  That would lead to years of adventures — super 8 movies, tape recording prank phone calls, magic, boat trips, our summer at the Cornell University high school program (he fell in love with the school) and trips to Atlantic City (and a few stories we still wouldn’t want to tell our parents).  Andy (a/k/a cookie) always thought out of the box and had a great sense of humor. While we didn’t keep in close contact in recent years, I will always recall fondly our childhood memories.  Thoughts and prayers to Phyllis, Janet and the whole family.   May he be of blessed memory.  

Remembering a generous, intelligent and passionate colleague, friend and scientist. Andy inspired global uplift of the foundations of science and research. His dedication and determination changed the scope and standards of biobanking for improving human health. Specifically, his work has made a perpetual mark on the capacity for biobanking at Monash University (Melbourne, Australia) that will continue to benefit all in our community into the future. Andy’s remarkable human qualities, energy and good humour will be greatly and very sadly missed.   

My heartfelt condolences to the family.  I had the privilege to know Andy when he was at URochester and headed efforts for AmDEC and NERLSCD. He was a dynamic scientist and will be missed by all of us. 

I was so deeply saddened to hear of Andrew’s passing.  My heart goes out to the whole Brooks family, immediate and extended.  You have my deepest, warmest condolences.  
Growing up with Andrew, I was enamored with his intelligence,  his wonderful funny personality, his great laugh, his willingness to help me and others along the way.  Not to mention his capability as a young man to put a Dove to sleep while performing his Magic.  
Although, I have not seen or spoken to Andrew in quite some time, his absence will be an absence for us all and a void in us all.  
All my Love

Our heartfelt condolences on the tragic loss of Andy. We have the fondest memories of him growing up with our three sons in Lakeridge. Andy had a winning smile and was an accomplished magician. He was always outstanding as evidenced by his recent medical achievement concerning Covid-19.

My deepest condolences on the loss of Andy.  He was a bright light at Rutgers and a cherished brother to Janet.  I am keeping all of Andy’s family in my prayers and thoughts.  

So very sorry to hear of this tragic loss.  I knew Andrew briefly as a kid.  So very smart and caring!  Many prayers.❤️

Andy was a force of nature, a force for good. No one who met or worked with him could draw any other conclusion. I felt myself learning how to be better at my job just watching him do his. His generosity, spirit, love of life, integrity, and breadth of vision were unique. My feelings are with his family today and in the days to come. We will miss you Andy. 

Sending my sincere condolences to Andy’s family. Working at Rutgers, I take pride in all of the accomplishments and prestige Andy brought to the University. Janet, I enjoyed our time working together and your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers.

I was so saddened to hear about Andy's passing.  My earliest memory is from a biobanking social gathering years ago, where he was extremely welcoming and jovial.  Every time I saw him since that first meeting, he was always the same- laughing and joking with colleagues.  His presence in this world will be missed. 

My condolences to the family. Andy was an awesome person.  He had done so much for COVID-19 testing. It was my privilege to work with him in partnership with Kaya17, Inc.  We were going to do so much more together to change the game in POC testing......
May his soul rest in peace.

Su.

I am so sorry for your loss.  I grew up with Andy in Lakeridge and remember he was an amazing magician and a super nice guy.  I was so proud to see him on the news and how accomplished he was in his career. I am so very sorry for your loss.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that memorial donations be made to the Rutgers University Foundation in support of the Dr. Andrew Brooks Memorial Scholarship. Please send your donation to PO Box 193, New Brunswick, NJ 08903-0193. Please click this to make a donation online.

OBITUARY

Andrew Ira Brooks

February 10, 1969 – January 23, 2021

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