Surnames: BROOKS COLF

----Source: CLARK COUNTY REPUBLICAN & PRESS (Neillsville, Wis.) 03/31/1910

Brooks, Alonzo E. (27 Feb 1832 - 28 Mar 1910)

Alonzo E. Brooks, one of the oldest and best known citizens of this locality, died at his home in this city (Neillsville, Clark County) March 28, 1910, aged 78 years, 1 month and 1 day. His death was due to heart failure. Although advanced in years he had kept the use of all his faculties and was able to be about town till within a few days of his death. Deceased was born Feb. 27, 1832 in the town of Newfield, Tompkins Co., N.Y., being the oldest son of Bartimous and Elizabeth D. Brooks. When three years old he moved with his parents to Lorain Co., Ohio. There he grew to manhood and was married Jun 4, 1854, to Jane E. Colf, who survives him. Early in 1855 they moved to Carrol Co., Ill., where they lived for five years. They then moved to Clark County, Wis., arriving her Jun. 1, 1860. They located on a farm in the town of Lynn, being among the earliest settlers. There he and his family developed a fine farm, clearing it out of the heavy timber. Mr. Brooks took a prominent part in the public affairs of his neighborhood, being active in the interests of the school and town and county. He was one of the founders of the Lynn Mutual Fire Insurance Company, being a director all through the long years of its early growth. He was a type of good citizenship, honest and industrious, and public spirited. In 1900 the farm was sold and he and his wife moved into Neillsville. He is survived by two sons, Chas. E. and Geo. R. Brooks, both well known citizens; a daughter, Jennie L. died in 1881. The funeral was held Wednesday under the auspices of the Odd Fellow Lodge, of which he was long a prominent member. Rev. W.B. Burrows preached the funeral sermon, burial taking place at Lynn.