Richard John Brom

Richard "Rick" John Brom, age 72 passed away after a brief illness on Monday, December 29, 2014. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00AM, Saturday, January 17 at St. Mary Magdalene, 32114 Vine Street in Willowick, friends and family to gather at 9:30am. The services will be conducted by his cousin, Father Carl Uhler. A private family burial at All Souls Cemetery will be held at a later date. Rick was born on July 6th, 1942 in Cleveland, Ohio to Gordon J. and Eleanore M. Janecek Brom. He was a proud graduate of Eastlake North High School, Class of 1960. He served in the United States Air Force from 1960-1964 and worked as a flight facilities equipment repairman in South Vietnam. He worked in radiology repair and sales and was a business owner. His condition, when asked, was always "not too pretty shabby". Rick had skillful hands and enjoyed drawing, woodworking, welding, sculpting, refurbishing, fishing, creating jewelry and the art of conversation. He spent much of his time working with cars and building fiberglass replicas. He faced each new project with enthusiasm and was never daunted by the possibility of failure. He was an admirer of nature and loved the water, wind, trees, sun and sky. He enjoyed raising his family on the shores of Lake Erie, watching glorious sunsets. He took great pride in the accomplishments of all 4 of his children and was a wonderful father. The littlest ones in his life will tell you that he was a phenomenal grandpa, and according to his grandson was "the nicest guy on the planet". He dabbled with the guitar, piano, harmonica and even loved to whistle! Rick loved being with other people. He had a quick wit and a kind word for everyone he met and took the time to talk to anyone in need. Rick faced his recent illness with great strength and courage and he frequently spoke of his gratitude and amazement of Lynn's lifelong dedication and care for himself and others. His ever-present positive attitude, sense of humor, zest for life and beautiful, genuine, easy smile will be greatly missed. Rick is survived by his former wife Lynn Albertson Brom of Mentor, children David Brom of Mentor, Diann Bruce Borthwick of Kirtland, Richard Brom, Jr. of Eugene, Oregon, Jennifer Brom of Eugene, his grandchildren whom he adored, Naomi, Eliza and Merrill Williams of Eugene, Fiona, Ian, Norah, and Ainsley Borthwick of Kirtland, and great-grandchildren Lelainia and Althea Zintz-Williams of Eugene. He will be dearly missed by his siblings, Lauretta Ray Longhitano of Concord, Gordon J. Marty Brom of Willowick, and Catherine Bob Kilkenney of Mentor, and a multitude of cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws and friends. He also leaves behind his dear friend and companion, Sharon Waddington of Concord and her family. In lieu of flowers a donation in honor of Richard Brom can be made to Forbes House, 38043 3rd Street, Willoughby, OH 44094.

Richard John Brom

July 6, 1942 - December 29, 2014

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