John Joseph "Jack" Brokensha

Dear Chris,
I'm so saddened to hear of your dear fathers' passing. What a gem of a man! I remember dearly our highschool days, and seeing so much of your wonderful family. I carry with me many treasured memories. My deepest condolences to you, Chris, sister Nicky, your son Michael, and your dear mother, Shirley. Your loss is heavens gain, and God's orchestra surely has a sweeter sound.
God Bless & Keep You All
With Love, Friendship & Peace -

Tom Lee

Dear Shirley, My most heartfelt condolences go to you and your family. It made me very sad to hear of Jack's passing. He made every show I did in Detroit better because of his smiling face, positive attitude and creative talent. I have many great memories that will stay with me forever. So long Jack and don't be late for rehearsal. Much love. Doug Rogers

We are so grateful to have shared such wonderful times with Jack ---hearing him play and listening to his fun stories. He was a real favorite of our Tampa Jazz Club audiences. What a remarkable musical legacy he leaves for us. Our deepest regrets go out to Shirley and the family.
We'll miss him.
Bob and Marian Seymour

To all the Brokenshas: It's been a long time since working with Jack in the house on Wing lake but I always carried Jack and the experience at the house next to my heart once I moved to California. You were all so wonderful to everyone and I always admired Shirley for trying to keep the accounting in order as Jack would have given everything away just to be congenial. He really was an awesome talent but his warmth and fun loving attitude made even difficult work more pleasant. I pray...

Dear Shirley,
I was so sadened to hear about Jack's death. I guess I thought he would go on forever playing the vibes. I remember so clearly when we first met in Detroit in the 1960s doing jazz concerts with Bev Beltaire and Ed Sarkesian. And, I remember babysitting for Crissy all those years ago.
Love to Chris, Nicole, Michael.
Mary Ann (Williams) Trainor

Mrs. Brokensha,Chris and Nicole,

Please accept my condolences on the passing of your father. I remember when we were kids on Puritan in Highland Park, and how nice he always was. I also remember when my dad drove the double decker bus for him!!
Wishing you all the best,

Bob North
[email protected]

Shirley, Chris and Nicole, Our hearts go out to you at this time of sorrow. Jacks talent, sense of humor and love of music will be missed for all of us who new him well. God Bless, Eddie and Jan Pawl.

All of the jazz community of Sarasota will miss his wonderful spirit, his sense of humor, and his great music. How blessed were have been to have had Jack in our jazz life.