Donald Gerlach Brooks

Donald Gerlach Brooks, lovingly known as Don, was born on February 12, 1942, in Flushing, New York. He passed away on September 30, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Betty Brooks; his brother, Robert Brooks; and his sister-in-law, Helen Brooks.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Dawn Brooks, of the home; his stepdaughters, Jennifer Menne and her husband, Greg Menne; Nina Nelson and her husband, Paul Nelson; and Ashlee Grossman and her husband, Marc Grossman. He also leaves behind his seven cherished grandchildren, Taylor, Alexandria, Gregory, Dominic, Riley, Logan, and Oaklee, as well as his nephew, John Brooks.

Don had a lifelong passion for soccer. He dedicated much of his time to others as a Boy Scout leader and youth soccer coach, sharing his knowledge, encouragement, and love of the game with younger generations. He also played and refereed professional soccer, a testament to his deep appreciation for the sport.

Professionally, Don spent many years working at Normandin Chrysler-Plymouth in San Jose, California. He later moved to Kansas City, Missouri, where he continued his career with Chrysler at several dealerships. His final employment was with Champion Chrysler Jeep, Inc., in Independence, Missouri. It was there that fate brought him to Dawn, the love of his life.

On February 12, 2000, Don and Dawn were married on the showroom floor of the dealership where they met. Sharing his birthday with the beginning of their marriage made the day even more special. It was the beginning of a wonderful life together, filled with love, companionship, and treasured memories.

Don was an avid fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and Sporting Kansas City. He and Dawn also enjoyed being season ticket holders at New Theatre Restaurant in Overland Park, Kansas. Don especially loved taking Dawn to the theater because he knew how much she treasured their time together. Their shared experiences and the simple joy of making each other happy were a beautiful part of their life together.

Above all, Don loved his family, and his grandchildren held an especially precious place in his heart. He was incredibly proud of each of them and loved being there to celebrate their accomplishments. He especially enjoyed watching Taylor cheer in high school, seeing Lexi play her flute at recitals, and cheering Gregory on as he played football in high school and college. Every achievement, big or small, brought him pride and happiness. His love and support for all his grandchildren were unwavering, and the memories he created with them will be treasured forever.

Don was a kind and loving man who had a remarkable way of making people feel welcome. He didn’t know a stranger, and his warm personality and genuine interest in others made it easy for people to love him. To know Don was to love him.

His life was filled with family, friendship, sports, laughter, and, most importantly, love. Though his passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who loved him, the memories he created and the kindness he shared will live on in the lives he touched.

Celebration of Life

Family and friends are invited to join in celebrating Don’s life and honoring the memories he leaves behind.

Date: October 26, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: Heartland Cremation and Burial Society
6113 Blue Ridge Boulevard
Raytown, MO 64133

Don will be deeply missed and forever loved by his family, friends, and all who had the honor of knowing him.