The world became a little less mischievous on March 27, 2025, when Donald J. "Butch"

Brookes, 84, took his final bow at his home in Moodus, leaving behind a legacy of love,

laughter, and well-timed pokes with his cane.

Born to Harry and Mary (Kucharcik) Brookes on May 2, 1940, Butch lived a life filled with

humor, heart, and the occasional harmless prank. He never met a stranger, only future

friends, and though he didn't tolerate nonsense, he had a knack for finding common

ground with just about anyone.

For over 50 years, he shared his life with his beloved wife, Audrey (Ressler), proving that

true love is built on laughter, patience, and perhaps a well-placed eye roll or two. Together

they raised two daughters, Kelly Brookes (partner Ray Rothstein) of Higganum and Kimberly

Brookes (husband Bruce Dutch) of Moodus, who inherited his wit, resilience, and

appreciation for a good joke.

Butch leaves behind 7 grandchildren who will forever cherish "Poppie's" stories, his

wisdom, and his ability to turn any moment into something worth smiling about.

A lifelong lover of cars and community, Butch founded the Misfit Cruisers Car Show, which

he and his family ran for over 20 years. His philosophy? If it had wheels (or in one

memorable case, hooves) it was welcome. He was always one to appreciate the

unconventional and would welcome any and all, creating a safe, fun, family-friendly

environment for everyone.

Though he left us, his spirit lives on in every shared laugh, every roaring engine, and every

well-played prank. He leaves behind a void that can never be filled, but also treasure trove

of memories that will help keep us smiling.

He left this world knowing he was loved, spending his final days with his beloved, his

daughters, and grandchildren Christopher, Julia, Shaun, Olivia, and Tulla.

A memorial service will be held at Biega's Funeral Home, 3 Silver St., Middletown on April 4, 2025 at 11 a.m., with a visitation before from 10 to 11 a.m.  A burial will follow the service at Haddam Center Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to tell a joke, share a memory, or take a joyride in his honor. After all, he would want us to keep laughing, just as he always did.

Nighty-night now.