Ivan Dale Brooks

Ivan "Dale" Brooks passed away on June 24, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family and the memories of a life well lived. He was born on August 10, 1945, in Turtle, Missouri, to Ivan L. Brooks and Irene (Lee) Brooks. He grew up in Salem, where he learned the value of hard work at an early age. After high school, he began working at the Jim Wulff Charcoal Plant, saving money to purchase his first car. In his twenties, Dale proudly served his country in the National Guard, faithfully completing seven years of service until his honorable discharge. Throughout his life, Dale worked tirelessly to provide for his family. His career was rooted in the timber industry, where he worked as a cordwood cutter and logger. He also spent time farming and working in construction and was employed by Doe Run for several years. No matter his job title, Dale approached it with dedication and a strong work ethic. On August 24, 1966, Dale married Barbara Ann Nelson. Their time together was short by her tragic passing on September 29, 1968. He later married the love of his life, Mary Lou Daugherty, on March 18, 1972, in Jefferson City, Missouri. Together they cherished fifty-four years together building a loving home. Dale and Mary Lou were blessed with two children: Sherri and Aaron. Dale found great joy in the outdoors. He loved deer and turkey hunting, fishing, and spending weekends boating with family and friends at Bull Shoals Lake, Table Rock Lake, and Clearwater Lake. While he enjoyed many things in life, nothing meant more to Dale than his family, faith, and friends. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather who adored his grandchildren and treasured every moment spent with them. Dale is survived by his loving wife: Mary Lou Brooks of Salem, MO; daughter: Sherri Handy and husband Jeff of Lee’s Summitt, MO; son: Aaron Brooks and wife Julie of Salem, MO; sisters: Linda Baker and husband John of Salem, MO and Mary Lou Wells and husband Kenneth of Salem, MO; grandchildren: Brooke Braun and husband Parker, McKenzie Heil and husband Bret, Aiden Brooks and special friend Clint Black, and Ivan Dale Carder Brooks; great-grandchild: Baylor Brooks Heil; nephews: Randy and Chris Baker and their families; nieces: Tonya Brown and Chanda Hockett; other relatives and dear friends. Preceding him in death were his first wife: Barbara Ann (Nelson) Brooks; parents: Ivan and Irene (Lee) Brooks; infant sister: Hazel Irene; brothers: Kenneth Brooks and Larry Brooks; and his sister: Brenda Hockett. A quiet man and one of few words, Dale believed that when something was worth saying, it should matter. He often said, “There’s no need to talk just to hear your head rattle”. Dale's legacy of hard work, quiet strength, integrity, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. Services were held June 28, 2026, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Ben Pursifull officiating. Burial was in the North Lawn Cemetery. The Family was served by Wilson Mortuary. Condolences may be left on his tribute page at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Ivan Dale Brooks

August 10, 1945 - June 24, 2026