Mary Joanne Brooks

Mary JoAnne Brooks, known affectionately to family and friends as Jo, passed away peacefully with family on September 20, 2026. Born in Logan, Iowa, on October 7, 1939, Jo lived a life marked by love, kindness, and a welcoming spirit that touched everyone she met.

Jo was the daughter of Dr. Rolla and Wilma Hook, and she also cherished the guidance of her stepmother, Clara Hook. Her childhood in Logan was shared with her brother Jim Hook, and step-siblings Don Bloom, Jerry Bloom, and Muriel Johnson, who all predeceased her.

Jo found a soulmate in her loving husband, William H. Brooks Jr., whom she married on February 21, 1959, in Logan, Iowa. Together, they raised 5 kids and enjoyed 58 years of marriage until Bill's passing in 2016. Jo was a proud graduate of St. Mary's in Faribault, Minnesota. She contributed her talents and dedication to Brown Printing in Waseca, Minnesota, where she worked until her retirement. Known for her loving nature, Jo had a special gift for making everyone feel welcome and valued, her inherent nature was to help everyone and she was a huge lover of animals, which included many dogs and a family pet raccoon! Jo shared her later years with a special friend, Al Zanto. They enjoyed travel and family get-togethers. Al supported Jo through some of her later challenges with a kind and caring heart.

She is survived by her children: Bill (Kris) Brooks III of Stewart, Minnesota; Lynda (Wallis) Brooks of Osceola, Wisconsin; Robert (Tracy) Brooks of St. Clair, Minnesota; Barry Brooks of Waconia, Minnesota; and Ben (Audra) Brooks of Athens, Wisconsin. Her legacy of love continues in her grandchildren: Drew (Elizabeth) Brooks, Jamie (Beth) Brooks, Lexy (Colten) Duvall, Jameson (Elena Batchko) Brooks, Brittany (David Anderson) Brooks, Kaitlyn (Dakota) Venzke, Carter (Sarah Wagemaker) Brooks, Morgan (Brandon Dubois) Brooks, and Addison Brooks. Jo was also blessed with great-grandchildren: William, Sam, Landen, Garrett, Axel, and Greta Jo (her namesake). 

Jo's family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the caregivers at Woodwinds Hospital and the staff at Norris Square for their exceptional care and compassion during her final days. 

Mary JoAnne Brooks will be remembered for her warmth, her laughter, and the generous love she shared with all who knew her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and friends, and her spirit will continue to inspire those she left behind.

Private services will be held for family and friends.