Michael Wayne Brooks, 68, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Council Grove, Kansas Monday afternoon, December 30, 2019.
Michael or Mike to his family and friends was born to Wayne and Juanita Vasques Brooks on August 31, 1951 in Council Grove. His schooling included St. Rose Catholic School, Garfield Elementary, and was a member of the graduating class of 1969 of Council Grove High School. Mike married Karen Sutton on September 2, 2011 in Miami, Oklahoma.
Mike worked heavy equipment which included several years for Neosho Construction. He worked 21 years as an industrial plumber for Central Mechanical out of Manhattan. After retirement in 2011 he continued his work as a plumber in Council Grove right up to the day of his passing.
He was a passionate Kansas Jayhawk Basketball fan, bled crimson and blue, and was quick to utter "Rock Chalk" to one and all. Mike had a great love for the outdoor life which included hunting, fishing and camping. Mike was also considered by many as one of the area’s prime morel mushroom hunters. Even though he enjoyed mushroom hunting with family and friends, the secret location of his best "honey holes" undoubtedly passed with him.
Mike enjoyed classic rock and was known for his knowledge of the genre. Live music and socializing at BG’s was something he really enjoyed. He enjoyed being a grandfather and loved each and every one of them. Mike never met a stranger.
Preceding him in death were his parents and sister, Susan Dunegan.
Mike is survived by his wife Karen of the home; sister, Sharmon Richardson and husband Rick; brother, Mark Brooks and wife Sharon, all of Council Grove; brother-in-law, Ed Dunegan of Fresno, CA; stepsons, Curtis LaRue, James LaRue and Corey Cranford; and stepdaughter, Jonya Kelley, all of Council Grove. Also surviving are grandchildren: Dakoda, Jordan, Danielle, Jimmy, Jodi and Jaleigh; numerous nieces and nephews and a multitude of friends.
A Celebration of Life is planned for this spring.
Memorials may be made to Mike Brooks Memorial Fund and sent in care of Sawyer Funeral Home, Box 273, Council Grove, KS 66846.