Ronald Brookens

1929 - 2024

Ronald Brookens
On Sunday May 19th, 2024, Ronald G Brookens, surrounded by his family, passed away peacefully at the age of 94.
Ron was born on August 20th, 1929, in Mt. Pleasant MI, the middle child of the late Glenn and Mary Brookens. Ron spent his early years in various cities throughout Michigan. The family's travels took them from Mt. Pleasant to Coleman, to St John's, to Alabaster and to Detroit. Often the new kid, Ron developed connection to others through his love of sports and ever-present sense of humor. These traits would stay with him for the remainder of his days.
As a young adult Ron attended both Michigan State University and Central Michigan University, earning an undergraduate degree in chemistry. Ron also spent 2 years in the Navy serving in Guam. He often told the story of how he was eventually sent home after breaking his arm for the second time while playing baseball on base. On January 8th, 1955, Ron married the love of his life Janice L McMahon (a decision Ron referred to as the best decision of his life) and the two would go on to spend the next nearly 70 years in a strong and happy union.
Ron began working for the Dow Chemical Company in Midland initially in the Saran Development Lab, but soon moving to the patent department. In 1965 with 3 small children in tow and one more on the way, Ron and Jan moved to Southfield where he attended law school at Wayne State University. After 4 years in which apparently no one got any sleep at all, the Brookens clan moved back to Midland where Ron would spend a total of 40 years in an illustrious career as a patent attorney. Ron enjoyed the comradery and respect of his coworkers and was known for his quick wit and calm demeanor. Ron's work took him on many adventures to countries around the world, but he was always happiest to be at home.
Although a successful attorney, Ron's greatest role was that of family man. Together with Jan, Ron established a legacy of love through his 4 children and his 10 grandchildren. Ron's love also extended to the canine members of his family. Over the years he lovingly spoiled many dogs with long walks and table scraps, which earned him the title "The Dog Father".
Ron and Jan would spend 55 years in their much-loved Midland home. Their home would host countless celebrations for all 3 generations and served as homebase for his children and grandchildren alike. From yearly Christmas parties to summer afternoons by the pool, "Grandma and Grandpa's House" was where the family gathered to spend time together.
In his retirement, Ron enjoyed trips with Jan, escapades with his grandchildren, time with good friends, being the pool boy during the summer, beating anyone who would play him in racquetball, volunteering as a long-time member of the Memorial Presbyterian Church, cheering for his beloved Detroit sports teams and MSU Spartans, and escaping to the upstairs for a nap when things got too rowdy.
Ron is survived by his loving wife Janice, his children Dan (Beth) Brookens, Todd (Diana) Brookens, Mary Beth (John) Peters, and Barbara Brookens, and by his grandchildren Ben, Matthew, Andrew (Hanna), Morgan, Emily, Sergei (Elonah), Jeremy, Nicholas, Meredith and Laura. Ron is also survived by his sisters Audra Wiles and Anita Lee and their families.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday May23rd at the Memorial Presbyterian Church of Midland. Friends may visit with the family from 10:00am until time of service at 11:00am with a lunch served immediately after, and at which, if Ron had his way, the song Send in the Clowns would be played.
In lieu of flowers those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Memorial Presbyterian Church of Midland in his honor.
Smith-Miner Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Brookens family; to share a special memory please visit www.smithminer.com.