Robert E. Brooks

Ishpeming, MI - Robert Elvis Brooks, age 86, originally of Idaho, currently residing in Ishpeming, passed away on Friday, November 14, 2025, at UP Health System–Bell.

Robert was born in Old Meadows, Idaho, on December 31, 1938, the youngest child and only son of the late Raymond Latha and Eva May (Cox) Brooks. He proudly served in the United States Navy from December 1956 through November 1959.

Following his honorable discharge, Bob returned to Idaho and married Claudia Dawson, and they had three children, Tanya, Tony and Troy Brooks. Claudia and Bob divorced and Bob later married Twila Haines, in 1970. He worked at Diamond Signs for many years and then owned and operated Imperial Truck Painting. He took great pride in his craftsmanship and built many lasting relationships through his work.

In July, 2020 Bob and Twila moved to Longmont, Colorado with Mark and Carrie and in January 2022, they moved to Ishpeming, Michigan. They became members of NORTHIRON Church, where they found community and fellowship.

Bob was an important part of the country music scene in Boise, Idaho for 60 years. It was always a central part of Bob's life. A gifted vocalist and a talented guitar player, he performed with a band alongside many longtime friends, sharing his love of music with all who knew him.

Bob is survived by his wife of 55 years, Twila C. (Martin) Brooks; his first wife Claudia Brooks, daughter, Tanya Hokom (Wayne) of Hawaii, sons, Tony Brooks of Hawaii, Troy Brooks of Washington, Ray Omit of Oregon, daughter, Carrie (Mark) Hutchinson of Ishpeming, MI, and son, Phil (Carol) Haines of Idaho. His grandchildren, Jon Wright of Hawaii, Dan Fannin (Pei Wen) of Washington, Clinton Haines of Oregon, Sheila Rae Omit of Oregon, Airin (Arlyn) Hokom, AJ Jeffs of Oregon, Eva Watkins of Washington, Elizabeth Fannin (Reed Pierce) of Colorado, Hannah Brooks of Washington. Great grandchildren, Amori Yelton, Corbin Omit, Andre Hokom, sister, Jackie (Tyke) Wills of Idaho, and dozens of cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Sheila Brooks, who passed away at the age of four, his sister, Allene Wells and great grandchild Roman Elijah Brooks (newborn).

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, December 5th, at 3:00 pm. at Grace Church, 301 N. 1st Street, with Pastor Mark Broberg officiating. Military Honors will be accorded by the United States Navy. The family will greet friends at the church following the service. In lieu of flowers it is requested donations be made to the Ishpeming Care Clinic, at 325 S. Pine Street, Ishpeming, MI 49849.

Bob's obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com, where online condolences may be shared.

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