Susan 'Sioux' D. Brooks, 94

Susan “Sioux” D. Brooks, 94, passed away peacefully June 24, 2024, surrounded by her beloved family in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Born on Oct. 5, 1929, in New England, N.D., to William and Lena (Bambush) Honeyman, she was the eldest of nine children. Susan graduated from St. Mary's Catholic High School.

Susan met the love of her life, James Brooks, while working in Ione, Wash. He drove her crazy by playing “Coca-Cola Cowboy” numerous times on the jukebox. From these loving circumstances, the two were wed in Metaline Falls, Wash. After marriage, they moved to Lewiston for a short while, Sandpoint for a set time, to which they later settled in Coeur d’Alene. Together, they raised two sons, William (Bill) Brooks and Robert (Bob) Brooks. Bobby was tragically hurt in an accident. Mom’s unwavering dedication to Bobby’s care was a substantial factor in her role in life. 

In 1976, Jim and Sue bought the property where they built the Cascade Inn with help from family and friends. Along with the ownership and running of the Lodge, she also kept a full-time job as a waitress at the Chuckwagon Cafe for over 30 years. She was happy to greet her regular customers and meet new customers, unless they ordered a milkshake. 

Sue’s greatest joy was the arrival of her grandson, Derek James Brooks, in 2005. She attended every sporting or school event Derek was involved in. 

Sue was an avid bowler with lifelong friends. She also enjoyed gambling with her daughter-in-law, Lisa Brooks, and knocking down a few beers. Sue was a member of St. Pius X Catholic Church and the Hayden Lake Eagles. 

Sue's life was a testament to her unwavering kindness, resilience and boundless love for those around her. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing her. 

Sue is survived by her son, Bill Brooks; grandson Derek Brooks; and her daughter-in-law, Lisa Brooks, all of Coeur d’Alene, as well as three of her sisters, Yvonne, MaryAnn and Kathleen. Sue is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, James; her son, Bob; and siblings Richard, Vern, Arlene, Caroline and JoAnn.

A Memorial Mass will be held Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 11 a.m. at St. Pius X Catholic Church (625 E. Haycraft Ave. Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815). A celebration of life will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Cd’A Eagles, 209 Sherman Ave., Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shriners Hospital (www.lovetotherescue.org).

Please visit Sue’s online memorial and sign her guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.