John Donald Isojoki (Don Brooks), 89, of Corpus Christi, TX passed away Friday, August 25 following a brief illness.

He was born March 8, 1934, in Detroit, MI, son of Elmer (Isojoki) Brooks and Tyne Frost.   He married Pauline Thrushman in 1957 (a special lifelong friend) and had 3 children.   He lived in Michigan until moving to Texas in 1996.   Don joined Pauline to help love and care for almost 75 foster children.

His family immigrated from Finland in 1898 with the birth name of Isojoki.  As a teenager, they changed the family name to Brooks.

There was always a kindness for everyone he met and an unconditional love for animals.  The only time this would change is when a doctor would suggest prescription medications.  Vitamins were his way of life.

He was raised attending church, although in his later years he didn't attend services, his faith was deep.

He is survived by his son John Donald Brooks "Don", daughters Karen Brooks-Hodges (Quinton) & Lisa Brooks Gerdes (Late, David).  Grandchildren, Justin Gerdes, Michael Gerdes, Jonathan Gerdes, Nathanial Gerdes, Jennifer Hebert, Joshua Hebert, Tia Mazzouj, Jake Brooks, Shari Houck, Stephen Hodges and honorary grandson Teagon. 14 Great/Great Grandchildren, brother David Brooks (Eli) and very dear neighbor/ friend Valora Abel.  He was preceded in death by his ex-wife, dear friend Pauline, 2 brothers and 1 sister.

With his love of horses and dog racing, the family is asking in lieu of flowers those donations be made to Greyhound Adoption League of Texas, Inc. in his name.

https://link.edgepilot.com/s/153aa49f/GrYK3Kjlt0_KJlYPnEzLeA?u=https://galtx.org/greyhound-adoption-non-profit/