Jimmie D. Brooks

Jim Brooks was called home to Almighty God on Monday, August 17, 2026, at the age of 81. He was preceded in death by his mother, Leona Kelly and step-father Cloyd Kelly. Jim was born to Leona (Griffin) Kelly on May 20, 1945, in Redding, California. He moved with his family when he was a junior in high school to Hayden Lake in North Idaho. An avid hunter and fisherman, he loved the mountains and lakes of Idaho, spending summers working for the US forest service.

Jim graduated from the University of Idaho in 1968. Career plans were put on hold as Uncle Sam called his number and welcomed him to the US Army Infantry, sending him to Vietnam. He served his country honorably. In his retirement, Jim enjoyed doing volunteer work for the DAV (Disabled American Veterans).

Jim was married to Gaynette Baltzell January 31, 1970, ten days after his return from Vietnam. Their 56 years of marriage never saw a dull moment. In 1978, Jim moved with his family from Coeur d’Alene Idaho to Appleton, Wisconsin, where he has lived ever since.

Jim loved his family, made many friends that he spent years hunting and fishing with and never met a stranger he wouldn’t strike up a conversation with. Jim is survived by his wife, Gaynette; daughters: Amy (Kevin) Rather and Emileigh (Justin Grant) Brooks; and grandchildren: Nathan, Lauryn, Leo and Hadleigh.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, September 5, 2026 at Valley Funeral Home, 2211 N Richmond Street, Appleton with Pastor Aaron Rosenau officiating. Visitation will be held on Saturday at the funeral home from 9:00 am until the time of service. Please come and celebrate the full, faithful life of a guy who lived every minute he was given.

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