Ernest K "Ernie" Brooks

Ernest "Ernie" K. Brooks, 70, of Menominee passed away unexpectedly, surrounded by his family, on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at Aurora Medical Center- Bay Area. He was born on March 19, 1954, to the late Thurman and Beverly (Straub) Brooks in Leona, WI. He graduated from Wabeno High School in 1972. Following graduation, he enlisted to serve his country in the Army for twelve years and continued with the National Guard. On June 16, 1973, Ernie married his high school sweetheart, Geraldine "Gerry" Molkentin in Wabeno. They moved to Menominee in 1986 and have resided here since. He retired in 2011 from Waupaca Foundry. He was a member of the American Legion and Zion Lutheran Church, and past Boy Scout Leader. Ernie enjoyed fishing, camping, game nights, playing cards, and bowling. His true joy and love were spending time with his family, especially the grandchildren.
Ernie is survived by the love of his life, Gerry Brooks of Menominee; son, Ben (Tina) Brooks of Stephenson; daughters, Shannon (Jose Rodriguez) Harris of Marinette and Heather (Kurt) Masters of Menominee; son in law, Steve Harris of Marinette; grandchildren: Calvin and Joseph Harris, Ethan, Ella (Cota Nelson), Eli, and Ernie Masters, Savannah (Tyler) Patnode, Noah Brooks, and Chassidy and Brayden Harris; great granddaughter, Bentley Nelson; brother, Andy (Lori) Brooks of Wabeno; sister, Mary Jo Schneider; and his fur buddies, T-Rex and Jake. In addition to his parents, Ernie is preceded in death by a brother, Thurman Brooks and sister, Marilyn Brooks.
Visitation will be held at Thielen Funeral Home on Tuesday, February 4th from 4-6pm. Funeral Services will be held at 6pm. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Menominee.