Ricky Brooks

ALTON — Loving father, and devoted husband, Ricky Brooks, 67, passed away peacefully at 6:06 p.m. on Friday, February 26, 2021, at Alton Memorial Hospital. He had fought a short and courageous battle with kidney cancer and was ready to meet his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Rick was born on August 27, 1953, in Wood River, the only son of the late William and Delores (Franklin) Brooks. He was a faithful worker in his father's bicycle shop, Franklin Bike Shop. He married the former Melinda Compas on March 8, 1997, in Alton, and she survives. Other survivors include two sons: Dathan Brooks of Edwardsville, Travis Brooks of Springfield, Missouri, two step-daughters: Marissa Compas of Alton, Christine Compas and her fiancé: Case Fisher of Alton, one granddaughter: Hannah Brooks of Houston, Texas, his Aunt, Sally Davenport of Wood River, and many other extended family and friends.

Rick was employed at McDonnell Douglas, and later Boeing, for over forty-two years, most recently as a Print Services Manager. He loved Cardinals Baseball, Spring Training trips with his sons, trips to Siesta Key beach, and making a friend out of anyone he met. He always had a funny story to tell to make you smile; he loved to joke, and share his infectious laugh.

Throughout his life Rick was an active church member at Cottage Hills Assembly of God, Alpha Chapel, Beltline Christian Center, and Abundant Life Community Church in Alton, and treasured sharing in the ministry of Christ. He served in many different capacities, including Royal Rangers Leadership, Sonlight Ministries, Singles Ministries, Small Group ministry, and other various roles. Rick spent many happy moments with his beloved gang of buddies in the Abundant Life Café.

He and Melinda loved going on road trips, especially to Christian concerts. Most recently Rick was able to show Melinda his gregarious salesman skills at their flea market endeavors, where there was always a new friend to be made. Rick was always very involved in his sons' sports activities, and prided himself on the fact that he never missed their games. His favorite activity was spending time with his sons, Dathan and Travis, and his granddaughter, Hannah. It made him very proud to see the men his sons had become, and he loved them very deeply.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Ellen Scott, and his Aunt, Marge Renois.

In celebration of his life, visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, March 5, 2021, at Abundant Life Church in Alton. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 6, 2021, at the church. Rev. Roy Rhodes will officiate. Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.

Memorials are suggested to the BGMC Missions Fund at Abundant Life or to the Panama Children's Fund at Abundant Life.

Online guestbook available at www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com.

Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River is in charge of arrangements.