Gary Brook’s ultimate desire was fulfilled on May 23, 2018, when he departed from this world to meet his Savior face to face. Throughout his long and valiant fight against respiratory illness, Gary displayed unwavering confidence in Jesus’ love, goodness and power. He was grateful for each day the Lord allowed him to remain on earth to delight in his beloved wife, Nancy. At the same time, he felt an increasing peace and anticipation as he looked ahead to seeing the One who had died and been resurrected to give Gary eternal life.

Gary was born in Billings on Aug. 6, 1948, to Leon and Mary Erickson. After his father’s accidental death, his mother remarried, and Gary continued to enjoy a loving home. He graduated from Senior High School and went on to earn a business degree from the University of Montana, making him a passionate, lifelong Griz fan. He served in the Army Reserve for 25 years, retiring as a Lt. Colonel.

Gary’s love for rhythm moved him to buy a drum studio, as well as play in the percussion section in the Billings Symphony for nearly a decade. He completed paralegal training and worked for both the Jones Law Firm and the Crowley Law Firm. In 1998, he joined the staff at Peacemaker Ministries, where he served as the head accountant and “chief jokester” for 14 years. He then applied his exceptional skills as an accountant for the Billings Rescue Mission. Throughout his busy professional career, Gary also served as a Deacon and Treasurer for Rocky Mountain Community Church.

But the really big event in Gary’s adult life came on July 19, 1987, when he married Nancy Munro and devoted himself to loving and caring for her and her two children, Jason and Holly. Gary and Nancy shared many passions, including remodeling and decorating houses, gardening, cooking, hunting and Griz games. But most of all they enjoyed laughing with their friends, fellowshipping with their church, and worshipping their gracious and loving God who crossed their paths and gave them so many good years together.

Gary’s life was characterized by humility, loyalty, faithfulness and service, which made him a very special son, husband, father, friend and man. He is deeply missed by those who knew and loved him, but they are consoled by the hope of a grand reunion because of their shared faith in Christ.

Gifts may be made in Gary’s name to the Billings Rescue Mission or Rocky Mountain Community Church. A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 31, 2018 at Rocky Mountain Community Church.

Condolences may be made at www.michelottisawyers.com

     ~The Billings Gazette - May 27, 2018