Gary William Brooks, 71, of Colchester, Vt., passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 11, 2026.
Born on March 12, 1955, in Connecticut to Helen Tarte and William Brooks, Gary grew up in Essex Junction, Vt., where he attended Essex High School. He later graduated from the University of Vermont and went on to have a long career with IBM, where he worked for many years before retiring.
Later in life, Gary met his longtime partner, Penny Gillander-Dame, with whom he shared the last 14 years of his life. Penny and Gary were inseparable until the end. His family is deeply grateful that Gary found Penny and that they were able to share such a strong companionship. Penny cared for Gary with unwavering devotion, standing by him through every challenge and remaining steadfast during the final chapter of his life. Her love, patience and constant support brought Gary comfort and companionship, and their partnership was a source of strength to them both.
Gary was a reserved and private person who preferred the company of a small circle of family and friends over a crowded room. Those who knew him best appreciated his dry wit, sarcasm and self-deprecating sense of humor. He wasn’t one for grand gestures or being the center of attention, but he had a way of delivering a perfectly timed sarcastic comment that could catch you off guard and make you laugh. Gary was comfortable being himself and enjoyed life in his own way.
A lifelong New England sports fan, Gary loved just about anything Boston. He also enjoyed professional wrestling and was always up for watching just about any sporting event.
Gary’s interests didn’t stop at watching sports. He enjoyed horse racing, sports betting and spending time at the casinos with his father, Bill Brooks. Gary and Bill shared a very close relationship, and Gary also enjoyed spending time with Bill’s wife, Teresa Gokey. He especially looked forward to their time together at Lone Pine, where they shared many good memories. Bowling was one of Gary’s greatest passions as a young man and something he enjoyed for many years. And no description of Gary would be complete without mentioning his love of Coca-Cola.
Family was an important part of Gary’s life, even if he wasn’t always one to express it in words. He was a dedicated brother to Peter, making time to spend with him regularly over the years. Gary was also close with his mother, Helen, and his stepfather, Lefty. He shared their love of collecting heirlooms and loved Helen’s home-cooked meals.
Gary shared a particularly strong bond with his cousin, Sammy Haskins. Their relationship was much like that of brothers who were always picking on each other, trading teasing remarks and giving one another a hard time. Beneath the jokes and playful ribbing was a deep affection and lasting connection. Sammy was an important part of Gary’s life, and their bond brought the kind of familiarity, humor and companionship that only comes from family.
To his nieces and nephews, Gary was “Uncle Buck,” who didn’t always follow the rules. He was the babysitter who let the kids watch shows like “Beavis and Butt-Head” and “Ren & Stimpy” when they were probably far too young to be watching them, which naturally made him a favorite. He also made the effort to attend their sporting events and stay involved in their lives. Gary wasn’t necessarily one for big emotional speeches, but he showed up, and that was his way of showing he cared.
Gary is survived by his brothers, Peter Tarte and Jeff Brooks; his sister-in-law, Peggy Brooks; his longtime partner, Penny; his cousin, Sammy Haskins; and his nieces and nephews, Casey Brooks, Kyle Brooks and Kelly Ziner. He also leaves behind extended family and friends who knew and appreciated his unique personality and unmistakable sense of humor.
We can only hope that wherever Gary has ended up, there’s an unlimited supply of Coca-Cola, every Boston team is winning, the horses always come in first, and the casino finally gives him a break. Although, knowing Gary, he’d probably still find something to complain about.
A celebration of Gary’s life will be held on Thursday, October 15, 2026, 3 p.m., at On Tap Bar & Grill in Essex Junction, Vt. Friends and family are welcome to join us in sharing memories and raising a toast to Gary. Rest easy, Uncle Gary.