Russ Brooks

Russ Brooks, 56, of Independence, KS, formerly of Lawrence, KS, passed away Friday, January 2, 2015, at Caney Nursing Center, Caney, KS.

Russell Dean Brooks was born April 29, 1958 at Coffeyville, Kansas, first of four children to Richard Donald Brooks and Sandra Sue (Tucker) Brooks. He attended elementary schools in Pittsburg, KS and Grandview, MO, graduating high school in Grandview. He attended Johnson County Junior College, Kansas City, KS graduating with an Associates Degree.

Russ was a self-employed Painting and Cleaning Contractor for 38 years. Russ held a black-belt degree in Tae Kwon Do. He enjoyed writing, creating poetry, and was considered an accomplished artist. But to say his passion in life was taking care of his three children, proudly calling them the light of his life, would be an understatement. His children each proclaim him a great and original "Mr. Mom." He was a member of the Lutheran Church in Lawrence, KS.

Survivors blessed by his memory are his three children, Matthew Brooks of Lawrence, Jessica Mueller and husband Austin of Harrisburg, MO, and son Jacob Brooks of Independence, KS; one grand daughter - Charley Sue Mueller; his parents Richard & Sandra Brooks of Sycamore, KS; one brother - Rollie Brooks, South Dakota, two sisters - Shelly Schlotman of Lawrence, and Kimberly Wood of Baldwin City, KS; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Cremation has taken place under the direction of Potts Chapel Funeral Home in Caney. Private family services will be conducted at a later date. The family suggests donations to Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice in memory of Russ Brooks. Contributions can be left with the Potts Chapel Funeral Home in Caney. Online condolences can be left at www.pottsfuneralhome.com.