R. James Brooker, Jr. 80 R. James "Jim" Brooker, Jr., 80 of Westbrook, formerly of Wappingers Falls, New York passed away unexpectedly at his home on Tuesday, February 17, 2015. He was born on December 12, 1934, the son of Russell James Brooker, Sr. and Eda Brooker. On September 2, 1962 he married the love of his life and his best friend Sandra Joy Brooker (predeceased). The couple resided in New York until moving to Westbrook, Maine in 2007 after both had retired. He is predeceased by his younger sister Caroline, his grandson Andrew and is survived by his youngest sister Laurie. Jim is also survived by his oldest son Dennis Brooker and daughter-in-law Irene of Hopewell Junction, New York; his daughter Deborah Singler and son-in-law John of Poughkeepsie, New York and his youngest son Dale Brooker and daughter-in-law Stacey of Westbrook, Maine as well as his five grandchildren; Garrett Brooker, Zachary Brooker, Matthew Brooker, Lucca Ardovini-Brooker and Mia Ardovini-Brooker as well as several cousins, nieces and nephews. Known as "Pops" to his grandchildren, Jim served his country and devoted his life to the community, his church and his family. He served as a Corpsman in the United States Navy during the Korean War, stationed at the Philadelphia Naval Hospital. His service to the community included 35 years as a volunteer fireman with the Hughsonville Fire Company. During his years at the Fire Company, he served as Commissioner for twelve years, Chief of the Department for four years and Company President for three years. He was also past President of the Dutchess County Association of Fire Districts. Upon moving to Maine, he served as a member of the Parks and Cemeteries Board in Westbrook. A long-time member of Zion Episcopal Church in Wappingers Falls, New York and a recent member of St. Ann's Episcopal Church in Windham, Maine he was an active member of the Vestry for both churches. His devotion to family and strong work ethic were evident to all who knew him. His children and grandchildren were witness to his love of baseball, specifically the New York Mets and his varied opinions on politics. His lovable chuckle will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Portland Press Herald: A Memorial Service for Jim will be held on Friday, February 20, 2015 at 7:00 pm at St. Ann's Episcopal Church, Windham Center Road & River Road, Windham, Maine with Reverend Tim Higgins officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Jim Brooker can be made to the FASNY Firemen's Home in Hudson, New York. Poughkeepsie Journal: A service for Jim will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2015 at 10:00 am at Zion Episcopal Church, 12 Satterlee Place, Wappingers Falls, New York with Reverend Deborah Magdalene officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Jim Brooker can be made to the FASNY Firemen's Home in Hudson, New York.