MILFORD – Thomas L. “Brooksie” Brooks, 66, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, April 20, 2008. He was born April 14, 1942, in Orono, the son of Francis H. and Lola M. (Buraby) Brooks. He graduated from Orono High School in 1962. He served one term in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War era. He worked as a licensed master electrician and served in a supervisory position in the electrical shop at the University of Maine for 42 years, retiring in 2004. In 1968 Tom married his beloved wife, Phyllis, and they built their life together while living in the town of Milford. Tom was a very thoughtful, kind and gentle person, earning him the title of “gentle soul” amongst his family and friends. Tom always made himself available to anyone that needed a helping hand. He enjoyed gardening, playing cribbage, four-wheeling and motorcycling, until his debilitating Parkinson’s disease forced him to give up these pleasures. Tom was a devoted animal lover and he enjoyed feeding and watching all the animals that would come to his backyard. Tom is survived by his wife of 40 years, Phyllis; a sister, Kathleen “Kitty” Pelletier and her husband, Raoul, of Ocala, Fla.; a brother, Adrian Brooks of Belfast; a very special friend, Paul Rouleau and his wife, Lori, of Saco; a special godson, Hoyt Sutherland of Hanover, N.H.; several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son, Scott Lewis; both of his parents; and two brothers, Francis E. “Bum” Brooks and George “Hank” Earl Brooks. A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Friday, April 25, at Birmingham Funeral Home, 438 Main St., Old Town, with the Rev. Joan Desanctis officiating. Those who wish may make donations in his honor to The Animal Orphanage, P.O. Box 163, Old Town, ME 04468 or Bangor Humane Society, 693-B Mount Hope Ave., Bangor, ME 04401. Notes of condolence can be made at www.mem.com.