Daniel S. Brooks

October 8, 1949 – April 12, 2026

Daniel “Pawpaw” Brooks passed away on April 12, 2026. Born in Columbus, Ohio, he was the son of the late Herbert J. Brooks and Frances Catherine Sullivan Brooks. Dan was born and raised in the south end of Columbus, where he attended St. Mary School from grade school through high school. After graduating, he began his career as a printer, a trade he took pride in. He was later drafted into the United States Army, where he served in Vietnam with courage and was awarded a Purple Heart for the wounds he sustained in service.

Dan grew into someone who carried himself with a quiet, steady strength — the kind of presence that made life feel a little lighter just by being in it. As a Vietnam War veteran, he lived his life with resilience, humor, and a calm, reassuring spirit that made people feel at ease around him. He was known for his strong work ethic, his knowledgeable nature, and his unwavering commitment to being a provider for the people he loved — a role he took on with pride, loyalty, and a stubborn determination that became part of his charm. Even though he was a man of few words, he somehow had an endless supply of jokes — the kind that made you roll your eyes first and laugh second.

He was happiest outdoors, where nature and animals seemed to gravitate toward him, and where he could simply enjoy the quiet moments that suited him best. He found his greatest peace on long drives down quiet country roads — windows rolled down, letting the breeze carry in the beauty of the scenic route, never in a hurry to reach the destination. His humor, his grit, and his steady presence made him “Pawpaw” not just by name, but by heart.

Dan was also preceded in death by his first wife and mother of his children, Dorothy E. Brooks, and by his sisters, Judith Brooks Clemons and Carolyn Young Foley.

Dan is survived by his second wife, Donna Brooks; his children, Kimberly Brooks, mother of Emily Lowe [Tyler], Chloe, and Jackson; Joseph Brooks [Lori], father of Alex, Jacob, Josephine, Olivia, and Scarlett; and Joshua Brooks [Kimberly], father of Adia, Kierce, Nigel, and Xavier; his sister Anne Phillips [Daryl] and brother Mark Brooks [Mary]; as well as five great‑grandchildren.

A celebration of Dan’s life will be held at a later date, where stories will be shared, laughter will be loud, and his memory will be honored in the way he lived — with love, humor, and a good dose of stubbornness. Those who knew him best will raise a good stiff drink in his honor.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Dan’s name to your local humane society or animal shelter/rescue.

The WESTBROCK FUNERAL HOME- DAYTON is serving his family.