Richard E. Brooks

Richard E. Brooks, age 87, passed away on October 24, 2026. He was born on December 23, 1938, to the late Omer and Florence Brooks. Richard is survived by his cherished children Stephen (Tawney) Brooks and Laura (Jay) Elswick; treasured grandchildren Valerie (Pat) Lancaster, Jenna (Tyler) Elswick-Campbell, and one great-grandson Lancaster on the way.

Richard is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 61 years, Donna; siblings Herbert (Arlene, deceased) Brooks and Lois (Al, deceased) Stegens.

Richard graduated from North Olmsted High School and went on to proudly join the Army for 2 years attending telephone school. Then he pursued being a journeyman electrician, belonging to IBEW Local 38. He started in residential wiring and switched to commercial for Chevrolet in Parma. He worked on everything in their plant and retired as the cafeteria and food service electrical manager.

Richard belonged to many groups, including the South Cuyahoga Sportsman’s Association, Chatham and North Royalton Skeet & Trap Shooting club for 50 years, where he enjoyed pheasant hunting and sighting in rifles. Hunting was his great hobby, and he enjoyed being with others who shared his passion. He was a member of the Divinity Lutheran Church and Christ the King Lutheran Church. Richard also enjoyed numerous trips out west to Idaho, Wyoming, Utah, Montana, Alaska and Maine where he spent time in camps and riding horseback with beautiful scenery.

Most importantly, Richard loved his family deeply. He always did electrical work for his family and friends whenever they needed a helping hand, showing up with his tools and knowledge. Richard also had a special place in his heart for his Brittany Spaniels. Anyone that knew Richard knows his love of sweets and snacks, especially his Big Red Gum, potato sticks, and banana splits. He loved his family and was full of life, he will be dearly missed by all.

Family will receive friends on Sunday, November 1, 2026, from 1-5pm at Waite Funeral Home in Medina. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Monday, November 2, 2026 at 11am. Burial to follow at Eastlawn Memory Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Richard’s honor to The Care Team Hospice. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.waitefuneralhome.com.