Marvin BROOKS

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BROOKS: Marvin Henry of Sprucewoods/Shilo, Manitoba, passed away peacefully at the Brandon Health Centre on May 29th at the age of 76. Marvin was born in Edmonton, Alberta on July 19, 1932 to the late Henry and Edna Brooks. Marvin grew up on the family farm near Cornado, Alberta. Marvin left farming and worked at various jobs in the oil field and also apprenticed as a vehicle mechanic. In 1958 he joined the military serving for nine years in the Canadian Signal Corp. He then changed trades to the Royal Canadian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers where he continued to serve until 1982, retiring in Shilo with the rank of Sergeant. Upon retirement, Marvin was successful in immediately securing a position with the Public Service as an HP 3 Maintainer Operator retiring from this position in 1993 after serving his country for 36 years. Marvin's military career took him to Kingston, Fredericton, West Germany, Winnipeg, Shilo, Alert, NWT, Kingston, Calgary, Egypt and Shilo again, where he spent the last 31 years. Marvin married Sharon McKerlie of Regina/Balgonie, Saskatchewan in June of 1961. They had three children: Kelly, Gordon and Brandi-Ann. While in the military Marvin held several moonlighting jobs, his favorite being potato farming for the Adriennsen family of Wellwood for 17 years. Marvin was happiest when serving with the Lions Clubs of District 5M13 and his home club of Sprucewoods and Area of which he was a Charter Member. He served on District cabinet for many years. His favourite portfolio was Youth Exchange Chair during which time he created Camp Toba, hosting many exchange students from around the world. Marvin is survived by his loving wife Sharon, daughter Kelly Beaudoin (Maurice), son Gordon Brooks (Jackie), daughter Brandi-Ann Riegel (Falk). Granddaughters: Maigan Shaw (Jay), Giselle Beaudoin, Aletha Riegel, Katie Brooks and grandson Michael Brooks. His sister Sylvia McKay of Gibbons, Alberta, and many nieces and nephews. Marvin was predeceased by his parents:Henry and Edna Brooks of Edmonton, Cornado and Redwater, his brother Dennis of Lethbridge, Alberta, brothers-in-law Don McKay of Bonn Accord, Alberta, and Brian McKerlie of Pincher Creek, Alberta. A private interment was held in the Veteran's Section of the Brandon Cemetery. A Poppy Ceremony and Legion Rites were provided by Branch #3 Legion Honor Guard. Marvin was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion for 42 years. Honorary pallbearers were Lloyd Morrice, Karl Burke, Gary Sampson, Gordon Brooks, Maurice Beaudoin, Falk Riegel. A celebration of Marvin's Life was held at St. Barbara's Chapel, CFB Shilo, Reverend Dave Wilson officiating, eulogy was by Warrant Officer Gordon Brooks. A reception followed at the Sprucewood Community Hall in Sprucewoods. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Marvin may be made to Lions Foundation of Manitoba and NW Ontario, Rm 105 - 691 Wolseley Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3G 1C3 or The Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation, 150 McTavish Avenue East, Brandon, Manitoba, R7A 2B3. Expressions of sympathy may be made at www.memorieschapel.com. Arrangements were with Memories Chapel & Pre-Planning Centre, 727-0330.

As published in Brandon Sun on Jun 06, 2009