JACOB LEE BROOKS

Jacob Lee Brooks Sept. 20, 2010 -Nov. 15, 2012 Resident of Martinez Jacob Lee Brooks earned his angel wings on Thursday, as he passed away very peacefully in his home while being held in the arms of his parents. Jacob was diagnosed in the summer of 2011 with a rare, life-limiting genetic disease called Niemann-Pick. He was one of only three children in the US currently living with Niemann-Pick Disease, Type A. Jake was just two-years old (not quite 26 months), but despite his short time on earth he touched the lives and hearts of so many. Jacob loved being snuggled and reading books with his parents. His favorite bedtime friends were his stuffed elephant "Ele" and his glo worm. He loved going on adventures with his family, including camping, going to the beach and trips to the zoo. When he was able, he loved to play peek-a-boo, while kicking his feet with laughter and excitement. Although the disease restricted his body, his life and joyful spirit had an immense impact on those who knew him. Even complete strangers who followed his blog joyofjacob.blogspot.com were inspired by his life story. Jacob was a true blessing and inspired others to live their lives more fully with joy, laughter and an abundance of love! Jacob will be incredibly missed and there will always be a piece missing in our family, but he will remain in our hearts forever. Jacob is survived by his parents; Josh & Sarah (Kelly) Brooks, as well as his soon-to-be born baby sister. His paternal grandparents; Paul & Sheila (Strand) Cotruvo of Pleasant Hill, CA and Glenn "Beaver" Brooks Jr. of Concord, CA. His maternal grandparents; Dennis & Kathy Kelly of Martinez, CA. Aunts and Uncles; Hope Brooks, Todd Maselli, Glenn & Madea Brooks, Jeff & Liberty Dimick, Kate Cotruvo, Daniel Kelly, Joe & Jen‚e Kelly, and Kenny Kelly. Jacob is also survived by his beloved cousins; Hailey Maselli, Justin, Kayla and Abigail Brooks, Miller Dimick, and Alexis Kelly; as well as many loving extended family members. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Tuesday, November 20, 2012, 10:30 AM, at the Hope Center, 2275 Morello Avenue, Pleasant Hill, CA. A private graveside burial will be held at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Lafayette. Please join us as we celebrate the life of the strongest and most inspiring little man, our sweet angel Jacob. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Jacob's name to the National Niemann-Pick Disease Foundation (for type A) at NNPDF, PO Box 310 Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 or visit www.nnpdf.org. Connolly & Taylor 925.228.4700