Hello eGullet,
My names Miles Hamaker, Brooks' eldest son. Dad died of a heart attack on November 1st at Cane River Brewing in Natchitoches. He hadn't been in very good health for some years, but this was unexpected and unwelcome. It's been a very sad and confusing 2 weeks for me. Though, in that time I've rediscovered his writings and his many posts on eGullet and find them to be the closest thing to hearing him without being in front of dad as he wrote the way he talked. I wish he hadn't stopped writing.
I was happy to see this thread, and to read these kind words. I'm not sure how/when we will celebrate his life with the covid situation, probably a small funeral in North Louisiana where he grew up, and then he will be buried in Abita Springs Cemetery most likely in December.
I also see ya'll found his obituary. It took some extra time cause I found it difficult to work on it, so my mom (his ex-wife) and I wrote it together when I arrived back home from Oslo (where I live) on Monday. It will be published on Saturday in the times-picayune (New Orleans), and Sunday in the News Star (Monroe, Louisiana). Please pass on info to anyone you think would want to know.
If any of ya'll have questions about Brooks, funeral or anything, or have a story or know of something he wrote that you want to share (I would love to hear), you can email me at mileshamaker@gmail.com
Dad hadn't saved a very many treasures from his many life experiences, but I found one recipe I think you would appreciate from mr. cake himself:
