William R. Brooks

William Richard Brooks of Johannesburg MI and previous resident of Beverly Hills MI passed away peacefully surrounded by family on July 12, 2022 at age 93.

He joins Jane Carol (Smith), his wife of 62 years who preceded him in death. He is survived by his sister, Doris Salley; children, Bill Jr (Clara), Marcia (Tom), Betsy (Glen), Nancy (Jerome); 10 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

Bill was raised in Dearborn, MI and graduated from Dearborn High School.  After college, he spent 42 years at Ford Motor Company starting on the line and moving his way up to Plant Manager of Chesterfield Trim.  He was responsible for obtaining a Quality 1 First Class Designation and personally met W. Edwards Deming, the founding father of Total Quality Management, during a tour of his plant.

He retired from Ford in 1989 and moved to his lakefront property on Douglas Lake. Here he spent many years with his wife and family traveling, skiing, sailing, playing tennis, and making furniture in his woodworking shop.

A Celebration of Life gathering will take place in the future and will be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice of Michigan, Alpine Regional Tennis Association, or charity of choice are appreciated. Please share your memories and personal messages with the family at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com