George H. Brooks
1938-2023
In the early morning hours on May 29, 2023 with his family by his side, George H. Brooks of Berkeley Springs, W.Va., passed on to his eternal home at the age of 84.
George was born on October 7, 1938 in Steubenville, Ohio, the only child of the late Rose Marie Stasiulewicz and Harry Joseph Brooks. In 1957 George graduated from Big Red High School and after working a few years at the O.K. Bakery there in town he enlisted in the Army to begin his military career. During his years in the Army, he was stationed in New Jersey and Panama gaining experience in communications and earning his rank as Army Specialist-5. He was honorably discharged in April of 1964 and returned to his hometown where he accepted a position with Chesapeake and Potomac Telephone Company. Starting out as a janitor, George moved up in the company as a result of the valuable experience he gained in the Army and eventually he reached the position of Central Office Technician. He was transferred to Berkeley Springs, W.Va., in 1964 and after over 35 years of service, he retired from the communications company with an award of perfect attendance.
His family life began in 1962 when he married his high school sweetheart, Patricia Marie Mieczkowski, also of Steubenville. The young couple lived for a few years in their hometown before George’s transfer to Berkeley Springs where they established their roots and grew their family to include five children. George became a member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church where he was active with the Men’s Club and the Knights of Columbus. He also enjoyed many years as an active member of the Telephone Pioneers of America, a non-profit charitable organization whose mission is dedicated to community service among the many employees in telecommunications.
Following his retirement, George was afforded more time to pursue his personal interests. He enjoyed tinkering at home and was a self-made “Master of all trades,” always willing to help on those home improvement projects. He enjoyed western movies, playing cards, March Madness, and following the adventures of his many grandchildren. Ohio State Football was a passion and his love for the Washington Redskins persisted even through the tough years.
George was preceded in death by his parents Rose and Harry.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Patricia, his five children: Gregory S. Brooks (Carole) of Baltimore, Md., Kathy M. Organt (Tony) of Cape Charles, Va., Richard M. Brooks (Debbie) of State College, Pa., Robert G. Brooks of New Kensington, Pa., and Brian P. Brooks (Leslie) of Clear Brook, Va. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren: Miecz Brooks, Alivia Organt, Macy Organt, Marina Organt, Melana Organt, Anthony Organt, Mandy Organt, Marshall Organt, Nick Brooks, Sydney Brooks, Rachel Brooks, Taylor Horrocks, Madison Brooks and Emma Brooks.
Mass of Christian Burial was offered at 11 a.m. on Monday, June 5, 2023 at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 67 Liberty Street, Berkeley Springs, W.Va., with the Rev. Fr. Michael O. Lecias as celebrant. Military honors were provided by the Tri-State Honor Guard. Following the funeral mass there was a Celebration of Life luncheon at the church social hall. Private burial was in Bethel Cemetery.
The family received friends from 5-7 p.m. on Sunday, June 4, 2023 at Helsley-Johnson Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 95 Union Street, Berkeley Springs, W.Va., where a Rosary Service was recited at 7 p.m.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.helsleyjohnsonfh.com.
