John "Jim" Franklin Brooks III

Jim Brooks passed away on April 15, 2012, at the age of 91. Jim was a man who lived his life to the fullest and will be dearly missed for his get it done attitude and his tender, compassionate heart.

Jim was born on July 13, 1920, in North Platte, Nebraska to parents Lillian and John F. Brooks, II. When he was very young his family moved to California, the L.A. and Maywood area. Jim's father had said that "Jim had enough energy for two kids, was always active in something and wondering what to do next!" During this time, Sister Virginia was born.

In 1930, the family made a deal for a farm in Caldwell, Idaho. A saddle horse was purchased for Jim and Virginia to ride to school, which was two miles away. There were some difficult years, but in 1933, Jim was able to do his part on the farm and worked alongside his father and Uncle Denney. He learned to drive the old Dodge... and did so every chance he got. Two brothers were also born in Caldwell, Idaho, Dean and Charles. Now the family was complete.

In 1938, after high school, his father helped him purchase his first parcel of farm land. He farmed together with his father, who eventually managed the warehouse while Jim ran the farm. Jim married Helen Turner in 1941, and experienced several successful farm years during World War II, when farmers were asked to stay behind to farm the land. Their daughter Susan was born in 1945.

In 1947, the family purchased a farm in Madras, Oregon. Jim's parents and his sister, Virginia, and her husband, Art Carlson, also purchased farm land in Madras. The three farm houses were a wonderful sharing of holidays and family. As the families grew, they took turns which farm house would host each holiday and event, a picture of wholesome family life on the farm with many good years. Three more daughters graced Jim's life during his time in Madras: Judith in 1947, Joni in 1955, and Deanna in 1958.

Jim was also an accomplished singer during these times, with a beautiful tenor voice. He was often a guest soloist for churches, weddings, and other services.

Jim expanded his farming operations to include a feedlot and raised beef cattle. The farm/ranch was called "Plains Ranches" with the brand displayed as PR. During these operations, he participated in the creation of Madras Produce Co., became Chairman of the Oregon Beef Council and Vice President of the Cattlemen’s Association. In 1974, Jim began a new career in commercial Real Estate after moving to Portland, Oregon.

Jim continued to manage his property investments from his office called "Spur Real Estate" until the year 2000, when he "sort of" retired at the age of 80. (The logo was a spur from a cowboy boot - still a cowboy at heart.) He continued to be a board member of a condo association, his church, and always an active participant in all his endeavors. He was the type of property manager who rolled up his sleeves and painted railings, fixed trim, stained doors and woodwork and various other tasks. He enjoyed working with his hands and often brought his grandson along to teach him the skills of the trade.

Jim was a man who was never idle, creating projects and new ideas and was not quite content until he got them finished. He passed on a legacy of independence, creativity and resilience to his children and family.

It was in 1976 that he married Ruth Spillum, and they enjoyed 28 years together. Towards the end of their time together, Ruth became ill and Jim was a devoted and loving caregiver. When the time came for Ruth to have skilled care, Jim was there every day and spent almost every evening with her so that she was comforted and not alone.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Ruth and daughter Susan Harris. He leaves to cherish his memory daughters Judith Driscoll, Joni McCreery, and Deanna Brooks, sister Virginia Root, brothers Dean Brooks and Charles Brooks. In age order, Jim had five grandchildren (Susie's boys: Jason Harris and Mark Harris; Joni's son: Dan Hanshew; and Judi's daughters: Carrie Swartz and Krista Driscoll) and seven great-grandchildren (Dan's children: Desirae, Natalie, Shyanne and Jason; Carrie's Children: Brady and Ellie; and Jason's son, Vance).

Beloved by all who knew him, Jim is remembered as a kind and loving man, an entrepreneur with vision, fair in all his dealings, devoted to God and his church, and loved his family dearly.

A prince of men, in all respects of life.

Memorial Contributions

The family asks that donations in Jim’s name be made to:

Grace Bible Church

1431 SW 12th Street

Portland, OR 97201

The Salvation Army

Cascade Division

8495 SE Monterey

Happy Valley, OR 97086

They will notify the family of your donation.