Please join us in celebrating the life of Coach Bob Brooks. Collecting your stories and memories here will offer us great comfort. Click on the heart to let us know you were here and to receive email updates. Thank you for contributing to this lasting memorial. Heaven has a new Coach!
There's a void here on earth without Bob Brooks, but there's no doubt he's already made a huge presence in heaven telling stories of all those he left behind. What an honor and privilege it has been to have shared holidays and special events in his... moreThere's a void here on earth without Bob Brooks, but there's no doubt he's already made a huge presence in heaven telling stories of all those he left behind. What an honor and privilege it has been to have shared holidays and special events in his company. Bob's family was the center of his universe, but he opened his heart to our family as well and became a father/grandfather figure we all adored. A gifted storyteller, we never tired of listening to the many adventures upon which his rich and full life was built.
Before Bob transitioned to Southern California, I visited him in his Morgan Hill home. Diane, Kim and I had also planned to go out to lunch. When we were leaving, Diane told Bob we were off to have some girl time. Bob's quick and witty response was "I know, you girls are really going shopping for bras, so have fun!" We were in stitches, and I will forever remember this encounter because of how it encapsulated Bob and who he was - a man who brought laughter, warmth and joy to any and all situations.
In every persona Bob took on during his final years, he remained compassionate, generous and loving. Not even Alzheimer's could alter who he was at his core. This is the miracle of Bob Brooks and the legacy I believe he left to all who knew him - to be genuinely true to who you are no matter the circumstances. Our family is humbled by Bob's example of a life well lived and so very grateful to have memories that include him. We will miss his contagious smile, the twinkle in his "real" eye, the way he played games at Thanksgiving with his own twist, the congratulatory bear hugs he shared after dance recitals, and most importantly, how wonderful he made us feel when we were around him. less
When I saw the video of Bob's singing "Over the Rainbow", I am reminded of the celebration of life. I was looking to see if he would have followed with Izzy's other iconic song, "It's a Wonderful Life." Bob had the spirit in how he... moreWhen I saw the video of Bob's singing "Over the Rainbow", I am reminded of the celebration of life. I was looking to see if he would have followed with Izzy's other iconic song, "It's a Wonderful Life." Bob had the spirit in how he lived his life. less
Liz Abel
Karl, you have captured the essence of my Dad, this made me laugh and cry, thank you for taking the time to post this. Coach is smiling....Liz
The express a man’s footprint in one’s life is more than experiences that are shared. Experiences become blurred as time passes, but what is remembered are the emotions of the times, the shared moments of with friends and colleagues. Bob had the... moreThe express a man’s footprint in one’s life is more than experiences that are shared. Experiences become blurred as time passes, but what is remembered are the emotions of the times, the shared moments of with friends and colleagues. Bob had the spirit of a teacher and a nurturer of the spirit, which is the reason “the coach” is remembered fondly.
The boys from the farm (RJ Lund, David Foster, Ken King, Phil Olow, Bob, and I) played tennis on Fridays after a long week in the classroom. Most of us were coaches at some point so there was always a tinge of competition and trash talk, but it was mostly good times. We ended up at the Sports Bar at Tennant Station for chicken wings and several pitchers of brew. One time Bob offered to pay with his Beacon Gas card. We had our share of gas so, perhaps, Bob had the right idea. It added to the spirit after trash talk on the courts. Bob, they were good times, my friend.
The gang of coaches expanded when it came to our poker games and include Larry Koester, Harry Nagareda, Norm Dow, and Don Cowan. We were always happy to see Bob at the table. Because of his easy-going persona and a bit of naivety, some may have thought he was an easy mark. He always left with his shirt on while I made sure that my car had enough gas to get home before I came to the games.
The footprint that Bob made in my life is remembering his smile, easy-going personality, and the love he had for his family. He was a teacher in many ways to all of us. To Bob, it was not enough to just exist but to make a difference. You lived a good life, Bob, and made a difference. less
Laurie SalterI often referred to Mr. Brooks as my favorite teacher. He was definitely the teacher who influenced my career choice the most. He suggested a career in business with my strong math skills and love of accounting in high school. I did just that and... moreI often referred to Mr. Brooks as my favorite teacher. He was definitely the teacher who influenced my career choice the most. He suggested a career in business with my strong math skills and love of accounting in high school. I did just that and often thought of Mr. Brooks over the years. I still love accounting and think those first classes at Live Oak instilled that love. My deepest condolences to the family.
July 18, 2021
Liz Abel
Thank you Laurie! I too, had my Dad for accounting and it has served me will in life and my career!
Mr. Brooks was one of my favorite high school teachers. I had him for Drivers Ed and Typing. I was a TA for him my senior year. He was always kind and cared about his students. I also remember him playing tennis with our team. You could count on him... moreMr. Brooks was one of my favorite high school teachers. I had him for Drivers Ed and Typing. I was a TA for him my senior year. He was always kind and cared about his students. I also remember him playing tennis with our team. You could count on him yelling encouraging words through the fence during matches! It saddens me that he has passed away, yet he is forever loving his time on the courts!!! less
In the summer of 1974 ~ spent in a car with Mr. Brooks and two other Live Oak High School students taking a Driver's Education class. I had been driving on the ranch for years so I was the easier student, though I had never been on a freeway. We drove... moreIn the summer of 1974 ~ spent in a car with Mr. Brooks and two other Live Oak High School students taking a Driver's Education class. I had been driving on the ranch for years so I was the easier student, though I had never been on a freeway. We drove all the back roads for hours that summer. One of the students had never driven and Mr. Brooks saved our lives many times. I will am eternally indebted to Mr. Brooks. What a wonderful man, so kind and patient. A perfect teacher for learning to drive. Very fun and heartwarming memories. I did connect with him on Facebook a few years back and he was so welcoming and enthusiastic to accept my friend request on Facebook. Until we meet again Mr. Brooks....thank you!!....for saving my life haha! less
So sorry to hear about Bobs passing. He was a wonderful man, full of life and laughter. Bob always had great stories to tell. All our love to Diane and the family💕
Bob was not only our neighbor, but our friend. When Paula and I held our annual Neighborhood Christmas Holiday get-together at out home, Bob & Diane were some of our regulars to show up. We all knew where the Big Guy was in the house from his loud... moreBob was not only our neighbor, but our friend. When Paula and I held our annual Neighborhood Christmas Holiday get-together at out home, Bob & Diane were some of our regulars to show up. We all knew where the Big Guy was in the house from his loud and pleasant voice. We always saw Bob smiling wherever he was. We will miss you Bob. Steve & Paula Dunne. less
I am thinking of the Brooks family at this time with warm memories of playing basketball for Bob as our High School Varsity Coach.
Bob was the most patient head coach ever! He rarely threw his clipboard, but when he did we knew we were in deep... moreI am thinking of the Brooks family at this time with warm memories of playing basketball for Bob as our High School Varsity Coach.
Bob was the most patient head coach ever! He rarely threw his clipboard, but when he did we knew we were in deep trouble.
He set a great example for us as young men. Bob took the time to meet with each player individually so we knew exactly how we were doing and where we could fill a role on the team.
I consider myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to have Bob as a coach and as a teacher. He has a wonderful family and he was a great man. less
Kim Possehl
Thank you, Scott for sharing that memory. You were so special to Dad and he loved coaching you!
July 2, 2021
Diane Brooks
Hi Scott, What great memories we all share. You and your family contributed so much to the success of the basketball team, along with everything else you chose to do. You have always been an outstanding role model for others. Bob was so proud to be your coach.
Liz Abel
Thank you so much for taking such good care of my Dad!
July 1, 2021
Kim Possehl
Thank you for sharing this sweet video and for taking such loving care of our Dad!
July 2, 2021
Diane Brooks
Our entire family is grateful to your staff for taking such good care of Bob. Thank you for treating Bob with respect and for recognizing his strengths and allowing him to shine.
July 3, 2021
Karl Ting
Bob was no "Iz" Kamakawiwo'ole singing my favorite song, but he caught the spirit of life in the song. I am smiling when I see Bob continuing to be a part of life.
Dear Diane, Liz, Kim, Ron, Brooke, Kayla, Lauren, & extended family of Bob,
It is impossible for me to think of Bob without thinking of the team that is ‘Bob and Diane’, and smiling a big, wide grin, deep inside. That smile will never leave me, and... moreDear Diane, Liz, Kim, Ron, Brooke, Kayla, Lauren, & extended family of Bob,
It is impossible for me to think of Bob without thinking of the team that is ‘Bob and Diane’, and smiling a big, wide grin, deep inside. That smile will never leave me, and for that gift, I am, and will forever remain, eternally grateful to you both.
Not many people can permanently etch a permanent-grin! From the day we met, it felt like you both treated me like a son, which showed me how expertly the team of Bob and Diane had perfected their ability to create teams (and family).
Thanks for including me and my family so immediately into your inseparable team. You too, Kim and Ron!
I have learned that worth living and experiencing starts with love, which begins with family, which begins with love, an infinite virtuous chain of universal greatness, when it is done correctly. Diane, you and Bob mastered this art, beautifully. In my life, nobody has done it better. You equaled my own parents. It is the highest complement I can give you.
The proof is in the product of your loving work, your family, both the family you were given, and the family you chose. Thank you both for sharing your genuine love so authentically and generously.
Although Bob never formally coached me, as a basketball player who has had many coaches, When I met you both, Bob and Diane, in Bob I recognized an authentic, true coach, a guide and mentor who loved this role. Lucky Kim and Liz, to have parents like you. I recognize this family first focus, with an emphasis on athletic fun, as exposure to true greatness. Since I was fortunate myself to have experienced it, I knew it when I saw it.
We were player and coach. Bob’s love of basketball was so authentic. So is mine. His love of family was so genuine. So is mine. It is no wonder we clicked so easily. Diane could probably recognize the energy spike in the room when we were in each other’s presence, Halloween, soccer gatherings, etc. That was real fun!
I would have enjoyed being on Bob’s basketball team. He would have enjoyed coaching me. But we were already spiritually on the same team, so it didn’t really matter! That will never change.
In a small way, I will forever channel Bob’s spirit of love of sport, love of hoops, love of aspiring to be my best, which I know we shared from day one. Thanks Bob!
Last, but definitely not least, thank you, Diane, for being such a great and loving partner to Bob, the glue that made it all work for each and every person in the extended Bob and Diane Brooks family!
Kim Possehl
Thank you, Steve. Your beautiful words captured the essence of Dad and our family. My Dad loved being around you, sharing your love of basketball and family. He is forever smiling down upon us all!
I ran into Coach a few years back at Courtside Club in Los Gatos. I was just coming out of the steam room and walking to my locker when I heard, "Hey Loera." I didn't have to turn around, I knew the voice. "Hey, coach, how you doing... moreI ran into Coach a few years back at Courtside Club in Los Gatos. I was just coming out of the steam room and walking to my locker when I heard, "Hey Loera." I didn't have to turn around, I knew the voice. "Hey, coach, how you doing big fella?" He says, "I'm great. I just played 2 matches (of tennis) and won both. I'm slow and old and fat, but so what." When I turned around to face him, he was indeed old and fat....and not wearing his towel with the proper "technique". I cringed, but beamed inside at the sight of one of my mentors, one of my role models. Roles models aren't perfect beings, they are real and human and funny and quirky and LOVING. Coach was all that and so much more. I hope to always follow his lead and walk with pride and confidence and joy while I absorb and reflect life in its many forms.
I have 2 kids, and I have volunteered to be assistant coach in soccer, as well as running club. Subliminally, I'm sure I channel Coach's enthusiasm for sport, for competition, and for the love of playing games - all games.
Coach, I hope you win your next match. Keep an eye on my coaching and send down any and all pointers in how to corral a Loera athlete.
I miss you, and it chokes me up to even write this. RIP big fella. less
Kim Possehl
Thank you, Matt for your kind words and that great, funny memory of Dad. He would be so happy to know how he influenced you and so proud you are now a teacher and a coach. He is smiling down on us all.
June 30, 2021
Liz Abel
Matt, you have captured the spirit of my Dad with your heartfelt words, brings tears to my eyes knowing how many lives he has impacted. Stay well and keep up the good work for Coach Brooks!
I am a caregiver and I had the honor and privilege to "hang out" with Bob a few years back. He was always so cheerful, and he loved working out at the gym with me. On one occasion, I was getting him ready to get picked up at the Y and I didn't... moreI am a caregiver and I had the honor and privilege to "hang out" with Bob a few years back. He was always so cheerful, and he loved working out at the gym with me. On one occasion, I was getting him ready to get picked up at the Y and I didn't have very much time to finish up. I was putting eye drops into his prosthetic eye, when it popped out. I quickly got my phone and watched how to put a prosthetic eye into an eye socket-phew I did it! I got Bob to the Y 1 minute late. It became quite the story. Another time, Bob went to church with me and his eye randomly popped out and rolled under the pew. I took Bob out of church and got the eye back in. Bob remembered this and would tell people. He thought it was so funny that his eye popped during church.
Diane, Liz, and Kim I am so sorry for your loss. I will pray that you will have peace. You are wonderful people. Diane I enjoyed spending time with you and Bob. God bless you! Love, Heidi Hope less
Kim Possehl
Thank you Heidi for sharing these great (and funny!) memories. Dad got such a kick out of telling people the story about his eye rolling down the pew at church! You were a very kind caregiver, thank you for making a difference in Dad’s life.
June 29, 2021
Diane Brooks
Oh Heidi, how Bob enjoyed his time with you! He loved the lunch dates, workouts, rides in the country, walking and talking with you. You gave him just what he needed, attention and care with a personal touch. We miss seeing you Heidi. You are a beautiful angel.
July 3, 2021
Heidi Dukelow
Aww...thank you Diane. I enjoyed spending time with Bob and I enjoyed our visits. You two were so in love, it was beautiful to see. You were always so loving and patient with Bob. I love you guys, andI miss seeing you.
I am grateful for the many days and nights that I spent in the Brooks' home during high school. Bob and Diane created a happy, loving home for their girls, and then opened their doors wide to all the rest of us, their friends. Bob was a great example to... moreI am grateful for the many days and nights that I spent in the Brooks' home during high school. Bob and Diane created a happy, loving home for their girls, and then opened their doors wide to all the rest of us, their friends. Bob was a great example to me of what great men are supposed to be in their work, in their homes, and in their approach to life. He loved each of his girls individually for exactly who each was, and I saw how he spent a lot of time with each in support of their individual sports and interests. We tried to emulate this strategy for raising two sisters with my own daughters, because I saw how Kin and Liz each became their own unique best selves without being compared competitively to each other. Most of all, I am grateful to have often been around Bob and Diane during those formative years, and to have had Kim and Liz as friends. I am sure his joy in heaven is very great. Love to Diane, Kim, and Liz; and all the rest of the family. Wishing you peace. less
Liz Abel
Connite, thank you so much for your kind words. Oh so true, the doors were always open and Dad loved that.
June 29, 2021
Kim Possehl
Thank you, Connie for sharing your beautiful and kind words. That would make Dad so happy to know he had influenced you on how you raised your own daughters.
I loved Bob and Diane from the first minute I met them.
Bob and I just seemed to have a relationship that
felt like we had known each other for years.
He and Diane made me feel so welcome in the
family even before I married Diane's sister Kathy.
He was... moreI loved Bob and Diane from the first minute I met them.
Bob and I just seemed to have a relationship that
felt like we had known each other for years.
He and Diane made me feel so welcome in the
family even before I married Diane's sister Kathy.
He was always so kind to Diane's mother Carmen
as she aged and had issues. Kathy and I were so grateful
that he and Diane were there for Carmen. He supported
Diane all the way as she offered all the comfort she could to
Carmen's life for many many years.
He and Diane were always available to help many other relatives
somehow, even with their action packed schedules. You've got
to love and respect people who give so much of themselves.
I will always miss the conversations and fun we all had together,
Bob could be a hoot!!!
He is missed.
Love,
Terry Rogers less
Liz Abel
Uncle Terry, You and Dad (and all of us) had such a great connection, makes me smile. Be sure to scroll down and watch the video that is posted...as always Dad being a hoot!
June 29, 2021
Kim Possehl
Thank you, Uncle Terry for your kind words. He always had so much fun being around you. He loved you and Aunt Kathy so much.
June 29, 2021
Diane Brooks
Thank you Terry. I am so happy for the good times we have enjoyed together. You and Kathy are so important in our lives. Love you both always.
Bob, you were a terrific brother in law to me and I was always
so grateful that Diane married someone that was so good to
her. I remember when you and Diane met, courted and then
married, it all seemed so right and you both were so in love.
That love... moreBob, you were a terrific brother in law to me and I was always
so grateful that Diane married someone that was so good to
her. I remember when you and Diane met, courted and then
married, it all seemed so right and you both were so in love.
That love carried over into raising your daughters. Then your
grandchildren received the benefits of such a loving family.
Terry and I marvel frequently at the wonderful family that
you and Diane built.
I always loved it when you and I would have phone conversations
after Diane and I had visited for an hour. You would always tell me
every activity that every family member was involved in and how
they were. I always felt so connected with your family because you and
Diane were so proud of your family and shared their accomplishments with me. You often spoke of your appreciation for other people
and what you had learned from them. It was always nice to hear you
speak so highly of people who had influenced your life and in turn I believe that you influenced the lives of many, not just your family but
students and friends.
I love you and you will be missed by so many. Hope to see you on the
other side one day.
Love,
Kathy Rogers less
Kim Possehl
Thank you for your beautiful words, Aunt Kathy. Dad loved you and Terry and enjoyed all the special times you’ve shared together.
June 29, 2021
Diane Brooks
Kathy, You know Bob would love your sweet words to him. I’m sure he will still find a way to add his two cents at the end of our phone calls.
Bob was a great basketball coach, but he was so much more. What I remember most about Bob was him being a teacher, a devoted father and husband, a mentor and a really good friend. He enjoyed his work, his family and life. He set a good example for all... moreBob was a great basketball coach, but he was so much more. What I remember most about Bob was him being a teacher, a devoted father and husband, a mentor and a really good friend. He enjoyed his work, his family and life. He set a good example for all the youth that he taught and coached on how to be a good person and to treat others with fairly and with respect.
He was my driver's education teacher (along with another player) and we spent that week driving and running errands for the basketball team. Summer league basketball was driving to San Jose in the Volkswagen van to play games and then going to Togo's afterwards. Hanging out at the Brooks' house in the hot tub, measuring ourselves on the wall, seeing how many vitamins/supplements we could swallow at once, eating most of their food and just being with the Brooks family was a lot of fun and good memories.
Coach Brooks (aka "Big Bob") made the world a better place for a lot of people, including me. less
Liz Abel
Thank you Derek, I know Dad would love hearing your words, his basketball players were all so important to him and he had the utmost respect for you.
June 29, 2021
Kim Possehl
Thank you, Derek for sharing these fun memories. He had a special place in his heart for you and the basketball team. I know he enjoyed every minute coaching you.
June 29, 2021
Kim Possehl
Also be sure to scroll down to see the photos I posted of Dad, you, and the LOHS “worst to first in ‘82” basketball team. Great memories of a special season!
June 30, 2021
Diane Brooks
Derek, Coach saw you as a leader and a talented player. He always felt a close relationship with you. Thank you for posting your memories.
Darla SierrasDiane, Liz, Kim and family. Al and I are heartbroken to hear the news of Bob’s passing. All our memories of your family are cherished. From my babysitting the girls when they were little and I was a teenager, our wedding and children’s births, Liz... moreDiane, Liz, Kim and family. Al and I are heartbroken to hear the news of Bob’s passing. All our memories of your family are cherished. From my babysitting the girls when they were little and I was a teenager, our wedding and children’s births, Liz and Kim’s weddings and children. Bob teaching us creative financing ways and helping us get into our first house. Every time I write my name and make the ‘r’s in it I think of Bob. And how he pointed out to me, as a teenager, how to write them properly. (Always a teacher. less
June 28, 2021
Liz Abel
Thank you Darla, we appreciate your thoughts and yes I am sure Dad is teaching in heaven!
June 28, 2021
Kim Possehl
Thank you, Darla for your kind words. Dad enjoyed being around you & Al so much. We have great memories of our families together on Vegas Drive.
June 29, 2021
Diane Brooks
Hi Darla, We miss you. We all have great memories together for sure. You know Bob loved your upbeat positive personality and your sense of humor. The two of you had some good ping pong matches in the garage.
My memories of Bob are of too many years ago to be specific. I was a new teacher in my 30s when I first met Bob at Live Oak in 1973. Many of the teachers and administrators at the time were kind -- and let me say, tolerant -- to new teachers like me. Bob... moreMy memories of Bob are of too many years ago to be specific. I was a new teacher in my 30s when I first met Bob at Live Oak in 1973. Many of the teachers and administrators at the time were kind -- and let me say, tolerant -- to new teachers like me. Bob was at the top of the list of wonderful colleagues. He was in charge of student activities at the time. As a coach, I worked intimately with him. More than anyone else I remember, he helped me work with troubled students, finding ways of bringing them into the community of Live Oak though activities and working to understand them. I don't think I ever saw Bob get angry -- a mark of high professionalism.
I loved knowing Bob socially, but mostly, I credit him for helping me learn how to listen carefully to my students, launching me into a teaching career that lasted for 43 years. Bob was a kind and wonderful man. I am very sorry to hear that he is no longer with us. less
Kim Possehl
Mr. Peckham, thank you for sharing your kind words about Dad. I know he enjoyed his time with you as a fellow teacher and it’s so special to hear the positive influence he had on you. You were always one of my favorite teachers as well.
June 29, 2021
Diane Brooks
Thank you Irv. Bob would love your message. He had great respect for your ability to inspire students to become good writers and critical thinkers. And of course he enjoyed your all-around great personality. Best Wishes to you Irv.
Ron and I were able to visit with you, Diane, and Bob many years ago when your daughters were in high school and ours in grade school. What a wonderful memory that trip held for us from cold Michigan! Bob drove us all around to see the sights. Your... moreRon and I were able to visit with you, Diane, and Bob many years ago when your daughters were in high school and ours in grade school. What a wonderful memory that trip held for us from cold Michigan! Bob drove us all around to see the sights. Your daughters entertained ours with their gymnastics. Now I know that Ron was there greeting Bob as he entered heaven and was busy showing Bob around the new place. My sincerest sympathy to you and your family, Diane. less
Kim Possehl
Thank you, Joyce for sharing that special memory of Dad and your kind words.
June 29, 2021
Diane Brooks
Joyce we share the loss of our husbands, two really good men. We can be grateful for the many years we were able to enjoy with our husbands. We both have happy memories and wonderful families to help us move forward. I will stay in touch with you.
Great memories of Bob, Robin and Richard enjoying dominoes and other activities in their later years. My condolences to the family for your loss.
Bev Mercurio ♡
Kim Possehl
Thank you, Bev. I’m glad my Dad, Robin and Richard were able to have those fun times together. We miss them all.
June 29, 2021
Diane BrooksThank you Bev, Our special group of three couples was a life-line for each of the six of us. Our social activities allowed us to continue to be part of the community. The “Club” our three guys attended together for many years was another blessing. I... moreThank you Bev, Our special group of three couples was a life-line for each of the six of us. Our social activities allowed us to continue to be part of the community. The “Club” our three guys attended together for many years was another blessing. I am so grateful for the support we each provided for one another.
Bob and I have shared a wonderful life together for sixty years. I am eternally grateful for Bob’s lifetime of love for me and mine for him.
Bob’s booming voice and laughter let you know he was in the room. He was on the go most of the time. His... moreBob and I have shared a wonderful life together for sixty years. I am eternally grateful for Bob’s lifetime of love for me and mine for him.
Bob’s booming voice and laughter let you know he was in the room. He was on the go most of the time. His passion for family, for sports and for life, fueled his energy. Little kids, babies and dogs were drawn to him. His warm hugs and open arms were there for everyone. Bob was a fun-loving guy with a big heart. I loved the way he showed his delight with his eyes and smile and a bit of a giggle. Bob is an all-around good guy. I feel so lucky to have spent my life with Bob. We were rarely apart during our marriage and I feel a part of Bob is still with me now.
Bob has enjoyed good health for most of his life. He always seemed to have extra energy. Only in recent years has he had some struggles. The “long journey into night” began about 8+ years ago. One needs to have great strength to live with Alzheimer’s Disease. Bob decided to create a new reality for himself. Every week Bob would have a new adventure. He has been a General, a Doctor, an Opera Singer, a Leading Male Actor, A Quarterback for USC, one of the top five athletes in the US, a designer of homes, the owner of hotels and restaurants, a trumpeter, the President of the US, owner of the finest of fast cars, leader of a band, and a Millionaire many times over. He loves asking people what they want most and then he gives it to them. He adopted a couple of caregivers as sons and paid for their entire college education. He could build up quite a story for each of the characters he became. Bob asked me to marry him so we have been planning our Hawaiian honeymoon and drawing pictures of the house we will live in. Of course it has a basketball court and tennis courts.
Bob made the best of a really difficult disease and he felt no physical pain. He waited until Kim arrived so our little family of four had a sweet visit together and then the next morning he soared upward into a new existence. We are happy that he is free to be Bob again.
Robert Brooks, Big Kahuna, Bob, Coach Bob, Dad and Grandpa have been a few of the names I heard Bob called over the years. I’ve had the highest admiration for Bob since the first night we met, when we both learned that Bob and I shared a lot of similar... moreRobert Brooks, Big Kahuna, Bob, Coach Bob, Dad and Grandpa have been a few of the names I heard Bob called over the years. I’ve had the highest admiration for Bob since the first night we met, when we both learned that Bob and I shared a lot of similar stories, family dynamics and familiar paths crossed in our youth. One trait we didn’t share was Bob never shied away from a conversation. To this day I’m in awe of Bob and Liz who when talking with people, no matter the setting, are energized from the exchange, for me it’s my Kryptonite.
Bob could weave a story together from a single trigger word. He lived life to the fullest, embracing every experience to be treasured and tucked away so that when the opportunity presented itself, storytelling would commence. Bob lived in a world between man and make believe and that’s where he can still be found.
When I think of Bob, I think of Family Man first. There was nothing he loved and adored more than Diane, Liz, and Kim. Then there came the grandkids and his family got bigger and stronger. His 5 grandchildren brought him so much pride and enjoyment. My love and respect for a man that lived his life touching so many and did just a little better than most men.
To the best grandpa there ever was, you were always the one to make everyone in the room smile. Your always positive attitude was contagious. You knew how to make everyone laugh. I’ll never forget our endless memories. Our trips to the boardwalk and... moreTo the best grandpa there ever was, you were always the one to make everyone in the room smile. Your always positive attitude was contagious. You knew how to make everyone laugh. I’ll never forget our endless memories. Our trips to the boardwalk and six flags, orange picking in the backyard, to the amazing grill master you were. Love and miss you so much! less
My favorite memories with grandpa will always be the time we spent together in Hawaii (his happy place), in Morgan Hill at his favorite donut shop, and our tradition of going berry picking and getting Ollalie berry pie and ice cream. The “Big Kahuna”... moreMy favorite memories with grandpa will always be the time we spent together in Hawaii (his happy place), in Morgan Hill at his favorite donut shop, and our tradition of going berry picking and getting Ollalie berry pie and ice cream. The “Big Kahuna” as he referred to himself, is deeply missed and he cared sbout his family more than anything. Everyone loved his big belly laugh and constant positive attitude- I never saw him angry. Grandpa was a teacher at heart and taught everyone around him, inside and outside of the classroom. He taught me how to gut a fish (when I was 7 or 8 mind you 🤣), gave me driving lessons, brought me to his financial advisor when I was 10, showed me how to pick and squeeze oranges from their tree, and taught me more life lessons than I can count. I am eternally grateful for the 30 years I got with him and am lucky to be one of his grandkids. Love you grandpa! less
In loving memory of my Dad, mentor, coach, accounting teacher, tennis partner, role model and overall great guy. Your legacy lives on in the wonderful family you have created, which has always been what you valued most in life. Your positive outlook,... moreIn loving memory of my Dad, mentor, coach, accounting teacher, tennis partner, role model and overall great guy. Your legacy lives on in the wonderful family you have created, which has always been what you valued most in life. Your positive outlook, drive, athleticism, competitive spirit, work ethic and sense of humor have shaped my life and Brooke, Erica and Brian's. We love you and still hear your encouraging words whispering in our ears......Keep on coaching!
With all my love❤️, your Daughter, Liz less