David Glenn Brockett

David Glenn Brockett of Twinsburg, Ohio, was born on April 1, 1946, and was born again into eternal life on August 29, 2023, after a 25-year battle with cancer. And yet, cancer found itself outmatched by his relentless hope, courageous spirit, and unwavering sense of humor.  With his convincing delivery, Dave managed to sneak in more dad jokes than should really be warranted before his family finally caught on. This playful spirit was equal in portion to the steady and abundant love he showed to his family.

The first of six children, he described an idyllic childhood, growing up on a generational farm in Randolph Township, Ohio, surrounded by family, friends, and farm life.  He rode horses, tended to animals and chores, played football, basketball, and track, and developed a sense of adventure that sometimes got him into trouble worthy of a child born on April Fool’s Day.  His fondness for his classmates and friends lasted throughout his life, despite time and distance.  

After a short stint in college, where hijinx took precedence over studying, he was drafted into the military. Luckily fate sent him to Germany rather than Vietnam.  He often thought about his friends who bravely fought and died in the war.  It was in Germany that he developed a greater adult sense of the world and a lifelong love for travel.  Upon returning, Dave began a career in the trades, and could often be found on winter weekends hustling down to Peek’n Peak or Seven Springs for skiing with his brother Al and friends. 

At age 35, he married the love of his life, Mary Ann (Zaleski), and settled in Michigan.  There, Dave and Mary Ann raised their three children, Chrissy, Mike, and Mark.  Dave found some of his greatest joy in children and especially adored their early years.  Later, as a grandfather, he was nicknamed “the baby whisperer” for his uncanny ability to calm even the most colicky baby.  

Throughout his life, he was a steadfast presence for many people.  He was at every game, meet, or performance for his children.  His colleagues trusted in that same loyalty and ethic.

In retirement he enjoyed living a simpler life with his wife by his side, his three dogs ever snuggled up to him, and his children and grandchildren nearby, happy to spend a summer evening cooking out on the deck.  He clearly prevailed.

Dave leaves behind his beloved wife, Mary Ann; his children Chrissy (Dave) Vitatoe, Mike, and Mark; his grandchildren Andrew, Julia, and Olivia Vitatoe; his sisters Cathy Rothermel, Diane Brockett, and Jane (Frank) Duvall; his brother Al (Bev) Brockett; and many beloved in-laws, nieces, and nephews.  He is preceded in death by his parents, Ned and Mercedes, his brother Mark, his brother-in-law Larry Rothermel, and his nephew Jason Rothermel.  

Friends and family will be received at the Church of the Holy Angels, 18205 Chillicothe Rd., Chagrin Falls, Ohio, on Saturday, September 2, from 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m..  Flower arrangements may be sent to the Church of the Holy Angels, or a donation may be made to The American Cancer Society.  Interment at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery will be scheduled at a later date. (Arrangements by St. John Funeral Home, Bainbridge Twp. 440-708-1855)