Colonie- Raymond E. Brooks, Sr., 85, passed away peacefully on December 12, 2017 at his home. Born on June 19, 1932 in Ballston Spa, NY, he was the son of the late Chester and Marion (Burdick) Brooks. Ray served his country honorably and faithfully during the Korean War in both the US Navy and US Marine Corps and he was well decorated in both. During his time in the Marines, Ray served as a Drill Sergeant. Ray was a loving husband, father, step-father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.
Ray is survived by his loving wife of 26 years Kathleen (Salisbury-Spiezio) Brooks; his children: Denise Brooks, Jennie (Chuck) Brooks, Raymond E. (Heather) Brooks, Jr., Kimberly (Troy) Cassell, Steven (Mindy) Brooks and Donald (Kirsten) Brooks; his step-children: Vincent (Karen) Spiezio, Christine (Tamme) Spiezio, James Spiezio, Anthony (Tim) Spiezio; his former daughter-in-law Lisa Spiezio; his siblings: Janice (George) Randall, Florence Lenz, James (Susan) Brooks, and Douglas (Linda) Brooks; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He will also be missed by his faithful, furry companions, Lucy and Chico.
In addition to his parents, Ray was predeceased by his first wife, Patricia Ebert Brooks, sister, Marlene Eldridge; his step-daughter, Vicki Spiezio and his grandson Steven Cooper.
Ray’s family would like to express their gratitude to his grandson, who was like a son, Shawn Quinlivan for his dedication and care for his grandfather.
Visitation will be from 4 pm to 7 pm on Friday, December 15 at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie. A funeral service will be held at 7 pm. Burial in Factory Village Cemetery, Ballston Spa will take place in the spring.