Dr. Donald Asher Brooks, age 99, of McCook, passed away at his home on January 5, 2024. He was born in North Platte, Nebraska on April 22, 1924, to Donald F. and Nina A. (Short) Brooks.  He grew up in McCook from the age of two and graduated from McCook High School.  He pursued his education at Trinity College, Holy Cross University, Colorado State University, and the Southern College of Optometry, where he earned a Doctor of Optometry Degree.

    Enlisting in the United States Navy following the bombing of Pearl Harbor, he served during World War II as a submariner. On September 30, 1950, he married Helen V. Bryant of Memphis, Tennessee, who preceded him in death on September 27, 2000.

    Returning to McCook with his bride in 1950, Dr. Brooks began his practice and later established the McCook Eye Clinic. He retired after more than 40 years of dedicated service. He loved nature and enjoyed hunting, fishing, hiking, and flower gardening. He was a member of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church and served on various civic and professional boards and organizations.

    In addition to his wife Helen, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Mary (Dr. David) Watson and Bobbie (Charles) Schiek.

    Dr. Brooks is survived by his devoted companion, Phyllis Coolidge; his daughter, Carolyn, and husband, Dr. John Brantigan of Shaw Island, WA; his son, Bryant, and wife, Peggy Brooks of McCook; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one sister, Abigail Tobler of Denver, CO; and numerous nephews and nieces.

    Memorial services will be at St. Alban’s Episcopal in McCook on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at 10:30 a.m., with Pastor Lisa Mensinger officiating. The service will include inurnment in the columbarium of St. Alban’s Church. 

    Instead of flowers, the family has requested memorials be left in Dr. Brooks’ name to either the McCook YMCA, Community Hospice of McCook, Hillcrest Nursing Home Foundation, or St. Alban’s Episcopal Church.  Friends may leave online condolences at herrmannfh.com.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook.