Brooks Howland Monfore

Brooks Howland Monfore, son of Barry and Kathleen (Morris) Monfore, at age sixteen, died of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) on March 4, 2012 at the Amplatz Children’s Hospital in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

His battle with AML began on September 14, 2009. Brooks received treatment at Sanford Children’s Hospital and the University of Minnesota, and obtained remission in May 2010. On June 18, 2010 Brooks underwent a successful stem-cell transplant and remained in remission until July 2011, at which time his leukemia relapsed. On December 6, 2011 Brooks started AML treatment at Sanford Children’s Hospital and later at Amplatz Children’s Hospital. While there he died from complications of his illness, lovingly surrounded by his parents and siblings. Throughout his battle with AML, Brooks was part of numerous clinical trials, targeted at curing AML. Brooks amazed his doctors with his strength and perseverance and lived many months beyond what was expected.

Brooks was born on July 10, 1995, along with his twin brother Tanner in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Brooks was baptized at St. Peters Episcopal Church on November 4, 1995. The Monfore family relocated to Pierre, SD in August of 1996. While in Pierre, Brooks attended Jefferson Elementary School, Georgia Morris Middle School, and was currently a sophomore at T. F. Riggs High School. Brooks’ outgoing spirit and charming attitude warmed the hearts of everyone that knew him. In 2009 his eighth grade class awarded him for being a great inspiration because of his courageous will while fighting cancer. Brooks strongly believed his courage transpired from his years of wrestling. Brooks was an AAU and USA wrestling State Champion, and All-American.

Brooks loved to go hunting and fishing with his dad, brothers, and friends. He also enjoyed tubing and jet skiing. Brooks loved his dogs and faithful companions Duke, Puma, and Tibia. Some of his favorite places to travel were Canada and Florida with his family. Brooks’ most favorite pastime was hanging out with his friends and cousins; whether they were shooting fireworks, driving cars, playing Xbox, or watching scary movies. Brooks always enjoyed life and the people he was with.