William F. Brooks

William F. Brooks, 94, of Salamanca, NY died Sunday evening, January 7, 2024 at Olean General Hospital following a sudden illness.

Born December 24, 1929 in Olean, NY, he was the son of the late Truman and Eva Strahl Brooks. He was married in St. Patrick’s Church on May 22, 1951 to the former Frances “Chicky” Conte, who predeceased him in 1997.

He was a graduate of Salamanca High School, Class of 1948.

Mr. Brooks was a veteran of the United States Army, serving from 1951-1952.

He had been employed with the NYS Department of Transportation for over 31 years, retiring in 1992 as a supervisor.

Mr. Brooks was a member of the former St. Patricks Church, Our Lady of Peace Parish, Holy Name Society, the Mr. & Mrs. Club, and a lifetime member of the Salamanca Volunteer Fire Company, Salamanca Volunteer Exempt Firemen, the Salamanca Auxiliary Police, and the Elkdale Country Club.

He loved football, especially the Buffalo Bills, and playing golf. He enjoyed driving and took pride in his vehicles. He was a fan of Clint Eastwood, John Wayne, classic westerns, and WWII documenatries. His favorite movies were Singing in the Rain and The Outlaw Josey Wales. He was a leader, not a follower and took care of his family through hardwork and discipline. He was a great husband and father.

Surviving are: a son, William J. Brooks, Salamanca, NY; a daughter, Mary (Paul) King, Rochester, NY; two grandsons, Brian (Elise) King, Alexander (Rachel) King; a granddaughter, April (Joe) McCarty, all of Rochester, NY; three great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and his companion of over 20 years, Pat Kyler.

He was predeceased by two brothers, Melvin Brooks and Douglas Brooks, and two sisters, Arlene O’Conner and LaBerta Freeborn.

Private visitation wil be held at the convenience of the family.

A Mass of Chrisitian Burial will be held in Our Lady of Peace Parish, 274 Broad Street, Salamanca, NY on Friday, January 12, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Dennis Mancuso as celebrant.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be sent to the Alzheimer’s Association of Western New York, 6400 Sheridan Dr #320, Buffalo, NY 14221.

Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Salamanca, NY.

E-condolences can be sent to orourke.orourkefh@gmail.com or posted to facebook.com/onofh.