James Brewster Obituary

I know this is a bit late, but better late than never. I knew Jim at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio in the early 60's. He was senior to me in rank, but he was accessible and helpful to every new recruit. I always felt that if I had a problem, I could go to him. He was a mentor to many young airmen and he gave "one mean haircut"! My condolences to all of Jim's family. He will always be remembered.

A fond memory of Uncle Jim: Setting: the summer of 2001 having a casual dinner on Angela's balcony with the view of Pike Peak: ...My late husband Frank and I enjoying Uncle Jim's entertaining conversations. Now both wonderful men are enjoying their eternal reward...in God's most glorious setting...

Chief Brewster was a true patriot. He loved his country, family and friends and would always proudly tell you that. He was always handing out a smile, a joke, a hug, a handshake, a pat on the back, words of encouragement and everything else that made this world a better place. Because of him, the day was brighter, the laughs more hearty, the steaks more tender, the drinks more refreshing, the music more enjoyable, the goodbye waves more memorable and the hugs tighter. He loved life more than anyone I ever met. He knew how to enjoy the little things, compliment you on them if they were about you and make them seem larger than life. He had a rare gift that he has passed on to his wonderful family. He truly did make this world a better place. Thank you Mr Brewster for everything.

Pat and family, I was saddened to hear the news my mother (Rose Edleman) shared with me this evening. Mr. Brewster was always very kind to my sister and I whenever my family visited. As Melinda's entry states, somethings will never be forgotten. Like Pat's monkey bread, that beautiful A-frame house nestled in the forest, and the enormouse size of the Christmas trees we saw inside of it!!!! Above all, there certainly was a feeling in that home that I knew I wanted and one that I enjoyed being a part of. Thank you for sharing that with me. We serve a blessed Saviour and we will one day fellowship with Mr. Brewster again.

Mr. Brewster (even as an adult i could never call him by his first name..lol) touch my life in so many ways in such a short amount of time... I was lucky enough to get to spend a few weeks at the Brewster house one summer when i was around 11 yrs old... and all i can say was the entire visit was like a page out of a story book for me... and the time made a bigger impression on me than i think even i realized... when i got this notice emailed to me i got in my big ol box of ol pictures and pulled out two that ment the world to me... even though its been over 20 yrs since that summer visit.. everyone of my friends has heard about Jim Brewster and his amazing house... That house is what got me interested in architecture...i also fell in love w/ daisies.. at the edge of the lawn where the grass met the forest they planted tons & tons of daisies... to this day that is my favorite flower... i could go on and on about that visit and how everyone in the Brewster clan touched my heart from my first taste of Pat's monkey bread to making homemade pizza for dinner... My heart goes out to u... but i hope to read threw all the notes left here u will find comfort that Jim has touch so many lives in such a way... he will always b missed...

Dear Pat & Family, Since I met Dale he could not tell one story of his childhood with out it including the Brewster's. You all were a big part of his life as he grew up. I was very pleased the day I met you and Jim. You both are very loving and wonderful people. Jim is with the Father now and our prayers are with you Pat the your hurt will heal quickly.
We love you guys.

Jim was a wonderful man. He always showed trust and respect in me as I grew from a child through my adult years. Jim opened his home to me upon my return from the Vietnam War and gave a heart felt welcome. To be absent of this body is to be present with the Lord. I'll love and miss this beautiful, Godly person.

I only have memories of being in the Brewster House, one Christmas when I was 8, must have been a memorable one because I can remember most of it. You all had the coolest tradition of guessing the gift. And I remember watching the movie Maniquin. I wish that I could have a family as close as yours. You all were so close from what I can remember, everyone still got together for the holidays. A man that can raise a family like that is quite a person and the world lost a wonderful man from what I remember. Pat I don't know if you remember me but I remember you guys and I am deeply saddened by his passing. I have always looked fondly on the memories of the "Brewster House" and always will. God Bless

Pat, Angela, Karen, Barbara, Jim, Mark and Dan. As I write your names I have tears in my eyes but I also have wonderful memories..Wow, what great memories I have of my second family as you were to many. Time sure does get away from you but the time I spent with your family will always be in my heart. You put up with me, you loved me and were there as friends to my Dad and Mom.(Mom and Jim will be having fun in Heaven) Jim ( who was always Mr. Brewster to me) would aways tease and make me laugh. I still hear him. We all went through so much and I am proud that he was part of my life. He will be greatly missed. My prayers and God's blessing to all of you.

Pat and Family--
The world is a little less bright, but heaven shines much brighter. I am saddened by the loss of Jim and my prayers are with you all in this difficult time. I have such fond memories of Jim as sort of a surrogate Dad when my own father was hospitalized after his accident and the high school years following. Jim was always there with such kind words and always a joke or two to cheer me up. Because Angela was my best friend, I considered myself very lucky to spend time with the whole, wonderful Brewster family. I can clearly remember how awesome it was to be able to say to friends "I know that guy-the Drum Major" whenever the AFA Band marched. I know how much Jim will be missed. With Jim, I cannot say he's in a better place because he created a little piece of heaven right here on earth and seemed to thoroughly enjoy every bit of it. But, I pray that time will heal the hurt, yet preserve the wonderful memories created by such an incredible individual. My heart goes out to you all.

JAMES G. BREWSTER, husband, father, grandfather and faithful life long friend died un-expectedly on a Sunday in December, 2006. I say that it was not expected even though Jim had been ill with an illness for years, he seemed to always bounce back from his down side hospital stays and be back to his old self in no time. The fact that he didn’t return home this time was a shock that still remains with us who knew and loved him so much.

Jim left much undone. I’m not only referring to the Wurlitzer three foot grand piano that remains in stages of reconstruction in his basement shop along with other projects, I speak to his not being around to watch his many grandchildren grow and embrace them with those long and endearing arms of his. If you knew Jim Brewster you also was aware that a hand shake just didn’t do the job, it was a big and long hug that was expected. He and wife Pat openly showed their love for one another as examples to their family and the world around them.

I have wondered, since Jim’s passing, what he was thinking as death approached. He had been made comfortable by the hospital staff, the family had gathered and were saying their goodbye’s. In was mid afternoon on Sunday, a Sunday the same day he was born on and about the same time, when he left his earthly body and looked down on all of us with a bit of wonder and surprise I would think. After a few moments he became aware of someone’s presence near him. “ Well now, how you doing?” came the voice.” I frankly don’t know”, stated Jim in some wonderment. “That’s me in the bed over there and there’s Pat, Jim and all our children and they seem to know that I am no longer with them. I don’t hurt any more, how about that, I don’t hurt any more!” “Well Jim”, came the voice, “we’ve been waiting for you for sometime but it seems you just were not ready or had to much to do.” “ Well to be frank,” stated Jim, “ I’m not sure I’m really ready now. I do so much want to watch the little ones grow and learn, be responsible, and grow up to be good people.” “What makes you think they won't grow up to these expectations of yours,” replied the voice. “I just feel I need to be there”, stated Jim. “Jim, do you know where you are now?” inquired the voice. “No I don’t know, I don’t think its heaven though” replied Jim. “Now why would you say that?” “Well, I never joined the Church, you see there were a couple of things”… “tell me about it” interrupted the voice, “I’ve got some problems with the Church myself." "Jim, you have done everything that was ever asked of you on earth. You were a good and devoted husband, a loving a caring father, you expressed love and forgiveness to those that knew you, you are in Heaven Jim”. Jim hesitated in his reply,” Sir, since this is heaven, will I ever be permitted to be in the presence of God?”

“You’re in His presence now, Jim”, replied the Lord, “ let me show you around.”

Jim and I lived over a thousand miles a part and while we arranged to visit each others homes or meet in various places from time to time over the years, we always stayed in contact by phone. I’m going to miss those loving and lengthy phone calls. I’ll talk to Jim tonight, in my prayers, after all he has connections now, and I’ll end my conversation with him as he always ended it with me. “ I love you Partner”!

I am truly saddened at the passing
of Jim. I was in the AFA Band Squadron with him from '68-72'. Jim
was my NCOIC of the Drum Corps during part of that time. It was an honor and pleasure to serve with him. He was a friend I will miss. My sincere condolences to his family.

Dear Pat,
We do lose track don't we.
I'm so sorry to hear about Jim. We have been friends for such a long time. (1952 in Alaska) We Just don't think it will ever end, but it does. I lost Audrey in 1991 and I miss her. But life goes on. We always loved you and Jim. It's too bad we couldn't live closer.

Here was a man who could cut your hair, tune your piano, grade your driveway, repair a fender, etc., But, more importantly, a real friend you could count on! We were neighbors and worked together in the USAFA Band as well as my musical group, a house-painting company and a piano-building enterprise. I, along with countless others who's lives he touched are going to miss Jim big time!!!
Frank McClaflin

Pat & Family ~

You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Keep him forever in your heart. He will be greatly missed by so many. God Bless you all.

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.

My sincerest sympathy to you and family Pat. Such a fantastic loss! Am deeply saddened to hear of Jims untimely passing. It brings back the memories of all the great experiences with him at the Academy Band. Woody was always talking about him in the recent years, and praising him for all his help and friendship.
May God aid and Bless you through this experience.

Pat and Kids - I feel like a little bit of fresh air has been drained from my very being as I think of Jim's departure form this earthly sphere. He befriended me when I had no friends, he supported me when I had no support, and he guided me when I truly needed guidance. I will never forget his smile, his warmth, and his love for life and for each of you. He was unique in many ways. I often think of you and hope that you will be comforted in this hour of need. I know he hated leaving you, but I also know that he is in a glorious place waiting for you to join him in eternal happiness. My family's prayers and thoughts go out to you all. He was truly a great man in every sense of the word.

We are saddened by Jim's passing and will always remember the great time we had with him in Alaska. He was a true gentleman.

Our hearts go out to you and yours at this time. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.

My heartfelt condolences upon your loss. We will miss Jim's infectious smile in the "Dawgpound" during games.

Sir,

We are greatly saddened to hear of your loss. Our hearts go out to you and your family. Please accept our dearest condolences in your time of mourning.

Repectfully,

The members and officers of the
Maxwell/Gunter Junior Management Association

I was so blessed and fortunate to know Mr. B ("dad") and to be the mother of his grandchild. I have never seen anything like the bond "Papa" had with Danielle. He loved his whole family so very much and was so proud of each and every one of them. They all carry in them his kind, generous, loving spirit. He was the most selfless man I have ever met and he touched my life so very much. I learned an enormous amount about family and love from him. Pat-I love you very much and always will. To all of the Brewsters and extended family-I am so very sorry and my heart goes out to each of you. As Danielle put it-"there will never be a better man than my Papa."

The very warmth of his beaming entrance to the Band Orderly Room (when the outdoor temps were higher) can now be enjoyed by those who preceded him. Jim has truly earned his latest promotion to a better place. Heartfelt sympathy to his family.

My prayers and sympathy go out all the family. Jim was a great guy, a great Browns fan, and just a joy to be around. He will be greatly missed.

My prayers are with you Pat and your family. Jim and I were stationed at Wrght Patt together and we would take turns riding to work. Every morning Jim would have a new joke. Jim was an inspiration to all of us. I also came to Panama in '76 and sat in for Chuck Whaley and you kindly opened your home for me to stay.
God bless you and your family.

Jim was a long-time member of the Pikes Peak Browns Backers. I was blessed to be able to get to know him through our short visits 16 weeks out of the year. I'm sure his dedication to the Browns was a reflection of his dedication to life. It was nice to see his smiling face on game day, and he will be greatly missed. Heaven's Chapter of the Browns Backers is lucky to have him as a member. My deepest sympathies go out to Dan, Jim and Diane, and the rest of his family and friends.

Pat and Family .I was very distraught to hear of the passing of such a great and wonderful man . I served with Jim in several bands . Both in Georgia and Panama . He was instrumental in my going to Panama . I remember that I and Dave Serpa would be guest at Pat and Jim's home in Panama for dinner on several occasions before our families arrived.I felt it an honor to serve with Jim . I looked forward to seeing him at AFMA luncheons and renewing our long time friendship . Occasionaly We would meet at the commissary and chat a little . I will miss this friend. I know he will have a wonderful place in the glory of our father in Heaven . Pat ; I know you had a wonderful Life with Jim . I hope God holds you close to him at this time and brings solice to you and your family . I will miss Jim !

It was with much sadness that I heard of Jim's passing. Jim was one of those folks whose memory will always bring a smile. He could be serious when the occasion called for it, otherwise he was upbeat and lighthearted. Playing in the trombone section with Jim was often hard to do with a straight face. He was great at muttering comments under his breath, either about the director or in self deprecation. The world will not be quite as bright without Jim, but we are all better off for knowing him.

Pat, you and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Chief Brewster was the first Chief I worked for in the Air Force after I enlisted in 1977 and was assigned to Scott AFB. His patience, wisdom, and kindness set a tremendous example for me as a young "no-striper." I took that exanmple to heart and thought of Jim often during my 27 years on active duty, particularly when it was my turn to lead. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of Jim's friends and family. He will be missed!

What a gift it was to know Jim and to be able to share part of his wonderful life. Although not official family members we were always treated as part of his family. He was indeed a light to follow. Our sympahties to Pat and all his children. With warm thoughts and respect for a great person. You will be missed.

I will always have fond memories of Mr. Brewster. My father and he were close friends throughout my childhood where I grew up with the Brewster kids. I'll never forget the fun times we had at their house on Spring Valley Drive (specifically the pond and silo). I know he is in a better place now. My thoughts and prayers go out to Pat, Angela, Barbara, Karen, Jimmy, Mark and Danny. Love, Kelly

I remember Jim with great fondness. Our time in Panama was memorable.

Jim was such a part of our family's life. He will be sorely missed. One of my fondest memories of Jim is stopping to say "hi" when I was driving past his driveway. He would make me get out of the car to give him a big hug and tell me that he just wanted me to stand there hugging him until someone he knew drove by to see him. He had such a great sense of humor and brought joy to all of us. Our prayers are with all of the family during this sad time. Love, Karen McClaflin

For as long as we have known Jim and Pat Brewster (over a half century), they have been our good and well respected friends. Pat, your loss is a loss to the whole world and especially to those of us who knew and respected him. Our thoughts and condolances are with you.

You'll all be in our prayers.

Sincerely,

The Zamora's

May the Lord hold each of you to His breast and comfort you. I remember Jim from the USAFA Band and also the Panama Band. Outstanding musician.

Our prayers are with you all during this sad time. I was stationed with Jim in Panama where I was a young, cocky SSgt and he was a patient, wise SMSgt. Nothing seemed to bother him. I've often thought about him through the years and wondered where he was. He leaves a wonderful legacy. God bless you all.

Jim will be missed by all who knew him. Our prayers are with the family.

My heart gos out to you and your family during this time of loss. I recently went through a loss and know how difficult it can be. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.

Please accept our deepest sympathies.

Aunt Pat and family,
Know in your hearts that Uncle Jim has met his ultimate reward in life. He is truly in God's arm and free of his life's ailments. Uncle Jim was always a smiling face no matter what the circumstances and always greeted you with huge hug. His love and generosity will be sadly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of both sorrow and joyous celebration. With love, Ami and Greg

Jim and I were stationed together at Wright Patterson AFB when I was a young and inexperienced airman. He was a senior musician who took time to befriend and guide the junior guys. I remember him as a fine musician and person, plus he gave the greatest haircuts! I know he was instrumental in developing a lot of career Air Force musicians. He will be sorely missed.

My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead. Jim was an example to follow when it came to helping others.

Please take comfort knowing that Uncle Jim is now truly at home and peace with the Lord. I'll remember the genuine caring and sincerity that Uncle Jim had for all his nieces and nephews when he asked how things were going in our lives. His enhusiasm for life was apparent by the ever loving grin he always seemed to have. My wife put it best when she said, "I loved that man from the first day I met him."
Our prayers are with you in your time of grief & may God carry you through this difficult time.
Love, Marty & Debbie

Jim will always be known as a great individual to me. What a sense of humor and such an honest person. He'll be missed.