Cory William Brooks

of Philip, South Dakota, died on Saturday, April 24, 2004
in Baghdad, Iraq, while bravely serving his country on active duty at the age of 32

Cory William Brooks was born March 26, 1972 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Cory was raised his whole life in Philip, South Dakota by his loving parents Darral and Marilyn Brooks. As a child, Cory was very active in sports. Cory participated and lettered in football, basketball, and golf at Philip High School, however his proudest moments came while playing baseball, having the privilege of being coached by his father. Cory grew up in the comfort of a small town and cherished most, the time he spent on his family’s ranch.

Cory’s success and pride continued while in college. He began college at the University of South Dakota in August, 1990 after completing Basic Training for the National Guard. While in college, Cory maintained a successful education while being honored as a member of the Sigma Nu Fraternity. Cory was also selected to participate in the notorious Strollers program while at the University. Cory graduated from the University of South Dakota with a BS in Psychology. He continued on in dignity to obtain a Law Degree in December of 2000, while on the same day obtaining a MS in Administrative Studies. Cory was published in the South Dakota Law Review and succeeded in Law School, while continuing to be dedicated to the National Guard. Prior to his activation for military duty, Cory was scheduled to take the Bar Examination in February of 2004.

Cory’s most treasured accomplishments came in the National Guard. At the time of his death, he had served his country in the National Guard for nearly fifteen years. He was a member of the Wheeler-Brooks American Legion Post #173 of Philip. Cory received many awards and was promoted quickly due to his hard work and dedication. He received the following awards; National Defense Service Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War On Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommisioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Army Reserve Overseas Training Ribbon, and the South Dakota Distinguished State Service Award and the Army Commendation Medal.

Cory returned to Philip to pursue his legal career while spending as much time as he could on his family’s ranch. There was no man more proud to be from a small town than Cory. He loved where he came from and those that represented Philip. His desire was to give back to a community those things he had treasured the most; integrity, pride and family values. Cory devoted his time to scouting for the Philip High School football team, as well as refereeing high school basketball games. Cory loved sports and entertained many by his vast knowledge of any and all sports. He carried on that love of all sports with his nephew Hunter, playing many games of baseball in the backyard. In addition, Cory loved playing golf and spending time with his yellow lab, Zeke.

Grateful for having shared his life are his parents Darral and Marilyn Brooks of Philip; his sister and brother in-law Angi and Mike Kiewel of Rapid City, the parents of his beloved nephew and niece Hunter Brooks and Hannah Jo; a very special friend Heidi Linngren of Rapid City; four uncles Arlie Brooks and his wife Heidi of Reedley, California, George Brooks and his wife Dee of Gregory, Dale Brooks and his wife Ellen of Sturgis, and Gary Brooks and his wife Vicki of Pierre; an aunt JoAnn Prichard of Kadoka; an uncle Jerry Hansen and his wife Norma of Spearfish; several cousins; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Cory was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Marvin and Alice Brooks; and his maternal grandparents Alfred and Sylvia Hansen.

Visitation was held 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 2, 2004 at the Philip High School Armory.

Funeral services were 10:00 a.m. Monday, May 3, at the Armory, with Pastor Paul Bly officiating.

Interment with military honors was 3:00 p.m. on Monday, at the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis.

A memorial is being established in honor of Cory.

FUNERAL SERVICES
Monday, May 3, 2004 10:00 a.m.
Philip High School Armory
Philip, South Dakota
CLERGY
Pastor Paul Bly
MUSIC
Marianne Frein – Pianist
Maureen Palecek – Vocalist
"On Eagles’ Wings"
"You Are Mine"
USHERS
Brian Sieck – John Marx
Manny deCastro – Trace O’Connell
D.J. Rush – Kenner Cihak – Jody Gittings
PALLBEARERS
Ryan Seager – Mike Moses
Raymond Coyle – Wade Rhodes
Bart Samuelson – Eric Backstrom
Chip Kemnitz – SSG Derris Buus
HONORARY PALLBEARERS
Philip High School Class of 1990
Sigma Nu Fraternity
USD Law School Students
INTERMENT WITH MILITARY HONORS
3:00 p.m. Monday, May 3, 2004
Black Hills National Cemetery
Sturgis, South Dakota
Old Irish Blessing 
May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
the rain fall soft upon your fields and,
until we meet again...
May God hold you in the palm of His Hand

Service Details

     

Guest Book

We are so sorry for your loss. You have our deepest sympathy.
   ~ Beverly & Cork Jahner 701 Ottilie St, Kerrville, Texas 78028 (4/24/2004)
Our hearts go out to Cory's family and friends.
   ~ Shaun and Brandie Slovek 12941 Larene Dr, Black Hawk SD, 57718 (4/24/2004)
Our hearts go out to all of you during this difficult time.
May God watch over all of you and give you strength and courage to get through this. You are in our prayers. God bless you all.
   ~ Tom and Tana (Kukal) O'Connor 919 A Lawrence St, Belle Fourche SD 57717 (4/24/2004)
With deepest sympathy we offer our prayers of condolence to the family of your brave warrior, Cory. He was a hero to us all and served his county bravely. May God bring you peace knowing that he no longer walks in paths of danger but in the love of his heavenly Father's shadow. Jerry and Diane

On behalf of the Blue Star Mothers of America, we send our love and prayers to a sister Mother. Diane, President, South Dakota Blue Star Mothers
   ~ Diane and Jerry Moen 2801 E Marson Drive, Sioux Falls, SD 57103 (4/24/2004)
So sorry to hear of the loss of your son. Our prayers are with you all. May God grant you the strength & courage you need to bear this burden that has been placed upon you.
   ~ Rich & Marilyn Grable 2432 Rock Creek Drive, Kerrville, TX 78028 (4/24/2004)
You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
   ~ Todd and Cheryl Gartner 518 Falcon Dr. Box Elder S.D. 57719 (4/24/2004)
Our sincere sympathy. The whole community will certainly miss him. He is a hero to have served our country. Prayers to all of you.
   ~ Tom and Shelia Trask Wasta SD (4/24/2004)
I didn't know Cory well, but I remember him as he was growing up -- every time I saw him he was at full speed! If I saw him on the street, he was always pleasant and always had a smile. The Brooks family can be proud of Cory for his dedication to his country; I know everyone who knew him is proud of him, too. May you find comfort in knowing that he was loved and well thought-of in this community.

May God bless you all and we'll keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
   ~ Kelly Penticoff Philip, SD (4/24/2004)
OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AT THIS TIME OF NEED. HIS SACRIFICE IS THE ULTIMATE AND WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. ON BEHALF OF THE FAMILY OF A FELLOW SOLDIER, PLEASE BE COMFORTED TO KNOW THAT HE WALKS WITH THE LORD IN PARADISE THIS DAY.
   ~ JOE AND BOBBI WOITTE 209 MAIN STREET MIDLAND SD 57552 (4/24/2004)
I didn't know Cory but just wanted to say thanks for his bravery and the sacrifice he made for all of us in this country. My prayers are with his parents and family.God Bless.
   ~ Dianna Sturgis (4/24/2004)
We didn't know Cory, but we want you to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers with the loss of such a special son. He was an asset to his family, community, and country and touched many lives. Such a fine young man will not be forgotten. May God hold you in the palm of his hand.
   ~ Byron and Cherry Denke Quinn, SD (4/24/2004)
Darral, Marilyn, Angi and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at your time of loss. Cory was a great kid with a real zest for life. And we thank him for serving our country. May God give you the strength and courage to get through this.
   ~ Don & Wanda Moses Fairmont, Ne 68354 (4/24/2004)
Please accept my deepest condolences. Our thoughts are with Cory and his family. I did not know Cory but I do know he and others like him are the light in a dark world. God bless you all.
   ~ George Philp 14 Baberton Mains Way Edinburgh Scotland (4/24/2004)
What a wonderful young man you raised. It is apparent that he gave his very best in everything he did. My Dad was a Sigma Nu and a veteran. We also have military sons ,one the same age as Cory. May God give all of you strength and faith to get through this most horrible time of your lives. Cory gave his all for his family, friends and his country. Another BSM mom from Oklahoma.
   ~ M. Ginger Crane 26411 E. Red Bud Loop Afton, OK 74331 (4/24/2004)
My deepest sympathy to all of you. I can't imagine your pain but will keep you in my prayers.
   ~ Elaine Staben RR 1 Box 188J Hot Springs, SD 57747 (4/24/2004)
Know that we are deeply grateful to you for raising a brave, dedicated young man... and to Cory for his courage to fight valiantly for our continued freedom. Cory will have a special place in our family prayers as he continues his march onward & upward.
May God comfort Cory, his family and his many friends.
Mike & Judy Barber
Tampa, Florida
(U.S.Air Force - Aerial Reconnaissance 1966-72)
   ~ Mike & Judy Barber Tampa, Florida (4/24/2004)
Our sincere sympathy. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless you.
   ~ Mike & Patty Groven Kadoka, SD (4/24/2004)
My wife, Paula, and I express our most sincere sympathy for your loss. I knew Cory at USD where we were fraternity brothers and later in law school as well. As I scan my memories of him, one thing that repeatedly comes to mind is his sincere smile and how he would look a person in the eye in such a way that you knew he was present and interested in the moment. He was a true character and could laugh at life. His selfless volunteer service to his country set a fine example for other young people in South Dakota. That he was willing to re-enlist for 15 years and step in harms way so that others "back home" and in Iraq could live a better life is a testament to his character.
   ~ Patrick and Paula Burns Minneapolis, MN (4/24/2004)
We thank you God for the gift of life of Cory ,the short time he had on earth .Thanks for his talents , kindness ,love for his country ,his service ,and family too . Watch over and guide his family through their loss .WE Love you You are in our prayers.
   ~ Bill & Jan Winegar 11120 Erickson Rd. Rapid City SD (4/24/2004)
Darral, Marilyn, and Angi and family,

My deepest sympathy to you all during this difficult time. Cory will always be a true hero, having made the ultimate sacrifice for his country and our freedom. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers today and every day to come. I have so many great memories of you all, my "second family", from all those growing up years in Philip. May God hold you all close and guide you through your grief.

With love, Micki, Eric, and Jack Lundin
   ~ Micki Lundin 2405 S. Dartmoor Cir., Sioux Falls, SD 57106 (4/24/2004)
We didn't know your son, Cory, but our hearts ache for you in the tragic loss that you are now facing. Please know that you have our deepest sympathy. Your son is with Jesus, and you will someday be together again. Your family is in our prayers. God be with you.
   ~ Denise & Dan Bahmuller 11 Linda Lane, Aberdeen, SD 57401 (4/24/2004)
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
   ~ Kenny and Lori Weiland Winner, South Dakota (4/24/2004)
Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories. Cory leaves a long trail of friendship, respect for family and friends, kindness, and humor. Cory was a friend that could always make me laugh with a joke or a story he would tell. The trail of memories Cory left behind will stay with me forever. I thank God today and everyday for the friendship we had. Cory... I will always remember you! Love, Tiffany
   ~ Tiffany Williams Greeley, CO (4/24/2004)
My sympathy goes out to the family at this difficult time. I went to law school with Cory and was saddened to hear that he made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. My thoughts and prayers are with you. God bless.
   ~ Mary Akkerman Sioux Falls (4/24/2004)
Cory's Family.
My heart hurts for you. My husband was in Iraq last summer and what was my greatest fear has become your greatest loss. I am so proud of your son and all of our Troops. May your memories offer you some peace now and in the future. Rest assured that God has Cory in one hand and you in his other hand.
   ~ Mary Sioux Falls (4/24/2004)
From the Men of the Sigma Nu Fraternity,
Our Condolences to the Family of Mr. Brooks

Brett Riggs
Emminent Commander
Theta Beta #678
   ~ Sigma Nu Fraternity 221 E. Main St. Vermillion Sd 57069 (4/24/2004)
I first saw Cory Brooks as an athlete. I played sports at Stanley County and the Scotties and Buffalos have a healthy west river rivalry. Cory didn't just play sports, he was an athlete. I did not know him well, however, until 1990. That summer, I nervously boarded an airplane for the first time and headed to Missouri for boot camp. I will never forget the relief and joy I felt that sweltering summer day when I scanned my basic training company for the first time and saw Cory smiling back at me. While everyone else's knees trembled, his smile seemed as wide as Haakon County itself. Later, at the start of law school, it was again Cory's smile and west river spunk that reassured me. Cory Brooks was a good man, a fine soldier, and his death is a painful loss to his family, friends, community, and country. My recollections and memories cannot express how sorry I am. I do hope they in some way convey to the Brooks' that your son made my life a better one. You have my deepest and most sincere condolences.
   ~ John Duffy Fort Pierre, SD (4/24/2004)
You may never meet us. You may never hear our voice. Yet as you grieve for Cory know that we are feeling your pain and tasting the salt in your tears. Know that a part of Cory will always remain with his brothers and sisters, our children--they will remember and honor his courage and his principles. The journey you have begun no parent should have to take. We as our children honor you and walk with you in silence ever ready to help you carry the burden. Along the way the sun will rise and it will set. The storms will ebb and then recede. The sting will lessen and in its place a gentle breeze in the twilight hours, a single star in the darkest night will appear. We will be there to share all of this with you. As you ask the reasons why, we will pray that you receive the Blessing of Peace. We remember your sacrifice. Thank you.
   ~ Susan Naill, National President, Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc. PO Box 555, Kensington, Maryland 20895 (4/24/2004)
To the family of Cory Brooks, words do not come easy at this time. May God help you thru this time.I am so proud of your son. Your family is in my prayers. Judy Crews another BSM from Florida.
   ~ Judy Crews 138 Azalea Street Tavernier, Florida 33070 (4/24/2004)
Cory touched a lot of lives, we'll miss him very much.
   ~ Kevin Brenneis 1210 I St, Tekamah, NE 68061 (4/24/2004)
To Cory's family:
I can not imagine how heavy your hearts must be during this tragic time. I didn't know Cory very well, but we did have a couple of classes together - one that stands out in memory is a home ec class. He and Chase Williams loved teasing us underclassmen. I will never forget his laugh - it was contagious. While Cory was gone to basics, he wrote me a few letters - that was when I discovered Cory had a loving spirit, caring heart and a sincere desire to serve our country. That is how I will always remember him. I wish I could have known him better.
May God be with you all during this time.
   ~ Kara Gittings Moriarty Fairbanks, AK (4/24/2004)
With deepest sorrow, we extend our heartfelt sympathy to you and your family at this time with the tragic loss of your son, Cory. May God keep all of you in His loving arms and give you strength on your path.

We are all blessed, individually and as a nation, to have a dedicated, courageous warrior like your son Cory. His life will be celebrated and remembered. Cory’s ultimate sacrifice will always be honored. Stephanie & Terry Morkert

With love and prayers to all of you,
And on behalf of the Blue Star Mothers of America, Southeast Florida Chapter
   ~ Stephanie and Terry Morkert 1230 S.W. 7th St., Boca Raton, FL.33486 (4/24/2004)
My heart is filled with sadness on the loss of your sweet Cory. He is a hero.
   ~ Mrs. Mickey Beard (Blue Star Mothers of America) 306 Hamilton St Colonial Beach, VA 22443 (4/24/2004)
I first met Cory as an opponent playing basketball, Midland v.s. Philip. He was an aggressive player that forced the best out of you. I got to know him more when we went to basic training in the summer of 1990. I remember talking with him when we were having field training. We were standing in the shade of a tree having lunch. We talked about the heat, our blisters and what we would do after basic. It was clear that the aggressiveness he had on the court was just as strong in training. It was also August and Sadam had attacked Kuwait. We new that life would be different. We were no longer opponents, playing against each other. We were soldiers who would serve our country together when called upon. I am sorry to hear of your loss. May God comfort you through this difficult time.
   ~ Keith Sheeley Stockton, CA (4/24/2004)
Our hearts go out to the Brooks family, Cory has made such an impact and everyone's lives, we have soon found out. Cory was like a son to Mike, they spend so much time together, not only at work, but at home too. When Cory would come and visit out house, you wouldn't have to tell the guy to make himself at home, he knew just where everything was! Cory would always make time out of his busy life and sit down with us and eat a few T-bones, and I do mean a FEW T-Bones. We soon found out his heart wasn't the only thing that was big, his appetite was very large also! I haven't told anyone this before, but when i first got my Blue Mustang, i went down to show it off to Cory. Of course Cory wanted to drive it, so we took off driving around town. As soon as it got dark Cory went out to the MBC approach and stopped. He turned his head over to me, and said, "can i see what she's got," and of course without any doubt in my mind I said, yes, let's go! Cory took off and he roasted the tires threw second gear, and just threw me back in my seat, it was great! From the moment on I had so much trust in Cory. All I can say now is, Cory, "Your my Hero!" There was one other fun time I have to share, Cory took my friend Zane Nelson and I out to the ranch to go fishing in this "secret dam." It was everything he had said it was and more, and just to let you know Cory, I have kept your promise, I haven't told anyone where it is! We are blessed to have known such a great man to serve our country! God Bless.
   ~ Mike, Shar,and Michael Moses Philip, SD (4/24/2004)
God bless you, Cory. I've had the privilege and honor to play baseball and basketball with Cory during high school. I'm sad we never kept up much after high school. You'll be sorely missed by all, especially the Class of 1990! You gave the ultimate sacrifice, and we are all proud to call you a classmate and teammate.
   ~ Steve & Staci Foley New Ulm, MN (4/24/2004)
Cory, we grieve that you have left us. We are extremely proud of all that you have achieved. You are a true American Hero. We know that a special place has been reserved for you.
   ~ Ed and Dottie Ellington 346 Pythian Rd. Santa Rosa, CA 95409 (4/24/2004)
Although I didn't know Cory personally, I am very saddened. I consider Darral and Marilyn special friends and here express my deepest sympathy to them and the rest of the Brooks family.
   ~ Gene and Mary Reynick 8033 W Appomattox Ln, Boise, ID 83714-6009 (4/24/2004)
We are proud to have known Cory, bless him for defending our country and our prayers are for the family at this very difficult time.
   ~ Dwayne(Sonny) and Donna Newman PO Box 429 (4/24/2004)
Darral and Marilyn: Rosemary and I and our family would like to extend our sincere sympathies to you and your family on the loss of your son in the war in Iraq. I am certain you are extremely proud that your son was willing to fight for and defend our country. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. May God Bless you.
   ~ Rich and Rosemary Greeno (4/24/2004)
We never knew your beloved Cory, but we carry your burdern with us. For he is your beloved son, he is the son of all Blue Star Mother's who have prayed for him continually with our flag flying, yellow ribbons tied and candles burning brightly. Our candles will continue to burn for your loss. We truly will never forget your sacrifice to the cause of our freedom. May you know that though we cannot understand your agony as your star turns from Blue to Gold, but our hearts and prayers go out to you and forever we will hold true to never forget. Some gave all....all gave some....

God Bless you and your family...we will never forget...
   ~ Jean Duane, Blue Star Mother's MN State Pres./liason P.O. Box 295, Bird Island, MN 55310 (4/24/2004)
We are so sorry for your loss and grieve with you. You and Cory are in our prayers. Thank you Cory for serving our country.
   ~ Bob and Tedi Lojewski 315 Waco Ct., Colorado Springs, CO 80919 (4/24/2004)
We would like to express our sympathy and sorrow in the death of your son, Cory. We are so thankful to him and to the others who are fighting for freedom and defending our country. May you be comforted by Jesus and your faith that he is in a wonderful place now, with God.
   ~ Morris and Barbara Jones Midland, SD 57552 (4/24/2004)
A friend of mine from the Philip area let me know about your son's death while defending the things his country holds dear. We want to express our sincere sympathies to you, his family, and our thanks to your son and all the many brave men and women who put aside their home lives to go fight a terrible foe. We pray God will give you strength and blessings in the coming days. Thanks Cory...for everything you gave to your country. God bless you all.
   ~ Linda Green 5865n St Rt 38SE London OH 43140 (4/24/2004)
I had the joy of knowing Cory as a student at USD. We lived in Norton Hall together and continued to hang out once he moved into the Sigma Nu house. I was shocked and saddened to hear of his passing. Though I had not spoken to him since leaving school, I've always remember how much fun he was and the crazy things he would do! My prayers are with your family.
   ~ Laura Ahmann 243 Harvard Road, Montgomery, AL 36109, laura_ahmann@yahoo.com (4/24/2004)
did not know Cory, but I have his name on a button that I wear to remember those who have given their lives in service to our country. I have gotten to know a little about him from researching what others have said, and I know just what a special person he was, and how terribly you must miss him. Please know that his memory and his sacrifice will not be forgotten. May God bless you . . . David
   ~ David A. Smith 7432 Belleview, Kansas City, MO 64114 (4/24/2004)
Marilyn, this is Dave one of the techs that worked at Phillip hospital. Both Deb and I were very saddened to hear of Cory's death and wish to express our most deepest condolences. It has been some years, Cory was a very young school boy when we lived in Philip, he grew into a good looking young man. You all take care, God Bless.
   ~ David Freitas P.O. Box 2066, Laramie, Wyoming 82073 (4/24/2004)
I am Theta Beta 480, Sigma Nu, Joe Dubsky...USD. First of all sorry that it took so long to say I am sorry this had to happen. I saw this and couldn't believe it, life is to short for us-we can't take advantage of it-no matter who we are and what we do! I just want to say thanks to Cory for being a Fraternity brother to me and talking to me when I needed your help---you made me laugh when I really needed it! God Bless
   ~ Joe Dubsky 27430 472nd ave Harrisburg SD 57032 (4/24/2004)
Marilyn & Darral - With tears running down my face, I just read Cory's obituary on the Philip website today and I am SO SORRY to hear of his death in Iraq. I cannot (and do not wish to) imagine the pain of losing a child. My love and prayers go out to your family. Cory was a great kid on earth and if anyone deserves a spot in heaven, it is Cory. Mary Ann
   ~ Mary Ann Wampler 6423 South 106th Circle, Omaha, NE 68127 (4/24/2004)