With heavy hearts and profound love, we announce the passing of Kenneth “Ken” Brooks, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and loyal friend. Ken passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025, at the age of 68, surrounded by the family who was the center of his world.

Born on March 6, 1957, Ken lived a life marked by compassion, service, and unwavering integrity. On December 1, 1984, he married the love of his life, Carolyn, and together they shared over 40 years of love, laughter, and partnership. Their greatest joy came in raising their children, Derek and Dayna, and later watching their family grow through marriage and grandchildren.

Ken served the Van Buren Police Department with honor and distinction for 32 years, retiring at the rank of Captain. He was widely respected for his leadership, fairness, and commitment to the people he served. After retirement, he continued serving the community as a court officer at the 34th District Court with Judge Lisa Martin, a role he embraced with the same quiet dignity and dedication.

Faith played a central role in Ken’s life. He was a dedicated parishioner at St. Thomas A’ Becket Catholic Church, and his commitment to service extended far beyond his career. While on the force, he volunteered with the Van Buren Goodfellows serving as President, Growth Works, and CAF-5 (Community Assistance Foundation). In retirement, he remained an active member of CAF-5, proudly serving as treasurer and continuing to help families in need. Ken’s dedication to helping others inspired a lasting legacy of service in his family, including continued involvement with the Goodfellows through the next generation, his children and grandchildren.

Ken also gave his time as a little league baseball coach to his son’s team for many years, earning the admiration of players and parents alike for his kindness, patience, and encouraging spirit.

A lifelong Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions fan, Ken was a proud season ticket holder and shared countless memorable game days with Carolyn and his family. Those outings became treasured family traditions filled with cheers.

But Ken’s greatest role — and the one he held most dear — was being “Grandpa.” He adored his five grandchildren — Frank, Genevieve, Sutton, Lottie, and Georgina — and never missed a chance to be there for them. He showed up for every game, recital, and Friday Fish Fry at Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish. Saturday mornings often began with a box of donuts in hand, and he was always quick to say “yes” to a mid-week coney island date or a new toy from Target — even when the parents said “no.” His constant, loving presence was a gift his grandchildren will carry with them for the rest of their lives.

Ken put his marriage, children, and grandchildren above anything else in the world. For 40 years, he took phone calls at 2 a.m., showed up within minutes with a calm and steady presence, and served as the unwavering anchor of his family. He always volunteered to be the pet sitter, airport chauffeur, or errand runner — often before anyone even asked. Ken did it all without ever seeking recognition or praise. His countless kind deeds often went unseen outside his close circle, but they were deeply felt by those lucky enough to know him. Ken was everything to all — a steady hand, a giving heart, and a quiet hero.

Ken will be remembered most for his generosity, compassion, honesty, and his ability to make everyone feel like a lifelong friend. He gave selflessly, loved unconditionally, and lived with integrity. He was a constant source of comfort, reassurance, and quiet strength — the kind of man who made others feel seen and cared for.

Ken is survived by his beloved wife, Carolyn; his children, Derek (Nicole) Brooks, and Dayna (David) Pina. Proud Grandpa of Sutton, Lottie and Georgina, and Frank and Genevieve Pina. Dear son-in-law of Christine Mardegian. He also leaves behind a wide circle of lifelong friends and colleagues who will miss him deeply.

Visitation for Ken will be held on Sunday, July 13th, from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with an evening Scripture and Sharing Service at McCabe Funeral Home 851 N. Canton Center Rd., Canton. He will lie in state on Monday, July 14th, at 10:00 a.m. until the time of his Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. at St. Thomas a’Becket Catholic Church, 555 S. Lilley Rd., Canton. Burial will follow in Riverside Cemetery, Plymouth.

Memorial donations in Ken’s name can be made to the Plymouth Goodfellows or Michigan Humane Society.