Doris A Brooks

Doris A (Sondgeroth) Brooks, 91, passed away January 31, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.  She lived a full and beautiful life defined by her faith, hard work, deep devotion to her family, and simple joys that brought everyone together and made them laugh. A funeral service will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Vandemore Funeral Home – Geneseo Chapel at 10:30 a.m. Reverend Ryan Shannon will officiate. Burial will follow at North Cemetery in Geneseo, IL. Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Vandemore Funeral Home – Geneseo Chapel. In lieu of flowers, checks for memorials may be made out to Doris Brooks, which the family will distribute accordingly.

Doris was born on March 29, 1934, the daughter of Albert and Helena (Becker) Sondgeroth in Mendota, IL. She grew up on the family farm and moved to Geneseo in her early twenties. She was the proud and devoted mother of seven children, whom she raised on her own with unwavering strength, determination, and endless love.  Her life was a testament to resilience and selflessness.  She always placed the needs of others above her own, quietly sacrificing and giving in ways both big and small.  Her family was her greatest accomplishment, and she poured her heart into each of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

For 21 years, she faithfully served as a custodian at Geneseo Middle School, retiring in 2003.  She took pride in her work and was known for her strong work ethic.  No task was beneath her, and she approached every job with dignity and grace.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures.  She loved being outside, tending to her yard, taking her dog on daily walks, sewing, and crocheting.  She was also an avid bowler and well known for her time spent in the gym.

Her kitchen was the heart of her home. She made the best rolls and pies.  Her famous roll recipe will be forever treasured and never quite duplicated.  No one ever left her table hungry.

She rarely missed her grandchildren’s events and cheered them on with pride.  She was also a loyal Cubs fan, celebrating their victories and faithfully sticking with them through every season.

She was loved by everyone who knew her, not for grand gestures, but for her steady presence. Her legacy will live on in the family she raised, the lives she touched, and the love she gave so freely.

She will be deeply missed and her memory forever cherished.

Those left to cherish her memory are her children, Glenn Brooks, Mary Jo (Jim) Brummet, Leon (Veronica) Brooks, Donna (Mike) Westerlund and David (Michelle) Brooks; Daughter-in-law, Jackie Brooks; Grandchildren, Crystal (Bill) Giebel, Holly (Justin) Miklebost, Travis Christ, Katrina Lentz, Kyle (Angelina) Christ, Chris (Toni) Brooks, Ashley (Jake) Ballageer, Melissa Brummet (Kate Merva), Lexi (Nick) Hanske, Steven Brooks, Aaron Brooks, Adam (Hannah) Brooks, Dani DeFauw-Brooks, Rori (Billy) Converse, and Eric Westerlund; and 24 great-grandchildren, with another on the way.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Helena Sondgeroth; a sister and brother; twins, Dennis Brooks and Anita Christ; and son-in-law, Wayne Christ.