Western Outdoor Times - Times Spent Outdoors: Priceless!

Lisa, we'll forever rreasure the years we shared.

Her Mother, Carol L. Allen

Beloved daughter, mother, wife, sister, and friend: Lisa was a loving, giving, kind, bright, funny, beautiful young woman, and oh, so much more.

Born in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Lisa graduated from Central Memorial High School, excelled in swimming, and began her service to others as a young member of St. John's Ambulance (a first-aid service organization).

The Life She Loved

She moved with her family to Arizona in 1982, and while working as a florist, began studying for her career choice as a first responder. Lisa successfully completed her Fire Academy, Fire Fighter/EMT degree from Mesa Community College, and entered her career with Rural Metro Fire Department as a FF/EMT, and later, as a 911 dispatcher and trainer.

Lisa continued until she retired to care for her daughter Kelsee Pearl. (Much to Lisa's delight, Kelsee is following in her mother's footsteps, now in training herself to be a Firefighter/EMT.)

Lisa loved music (and could really sing country!), all animals (including her horses), the outdoors, decorating, crafts, flower arranging, movies, shopping for bargains, giving to others, and above all, her family and friends.

Lisa's Family

Lisa left us far too early, and we grieve for her. However, we are sharing her joyful spirit in memories of our treasured times with her.

She is survived by her loving family: husband, Paul; daughter, Kelsee; father, Mike Brookes (and wife Maxine); mother, Carol Allen (and husband Jim), and two sisters, Christi (and husband David Proctor) and Chelle Brookes.

A Celebration Of Her Life

A Celebration of Lisa's life was held Dec. 28, 2013 at University Presbyterian Church, Tempe, followed by an informal gathering of family and friends at San Tan Flat, Queen Creek, Ariz. (Lisa's favorite restaurant/steak house).

With Gratitude From Her Family

Lisa's family would like to express deep gratitude to those below who contributed their special gifts for her service:

• Officiant: The Rev. Dr. Larry Norris, senior pastor of Central Methodist United Church and long-time family friend (and the pastor who married Lisa and Paul and baptized Kelsee), with the blessing of The Rev. Eric Ledermann, pastor of University Presbyterian Church,

• Pianist/Vocalist: Jaime Namminga, University Presbyterian Church,

• Piper: Travis McBurney, a friend and current firefighter with the Chandler Fire Department,

• Memorial Book: Karrie Bush, friend of the family,

• Sound: Chris Trella, University Presbyterian Church,

• Ushers: Dan Abbott and Catherine May, University Presbyterian Church,

• Video: Mike Wallace, friend of the family,

• Graphic Designer: Lauri Alexander, Lisa's sister-in-law,

• Chief Glenn Brown, Mayer Fire Department, "The Firefighter's Prayer"

Memorial Gifts

Lisa Brookes-Haws

Memorial gifts may be made to any animal shelter group (including horse rescues), to the Firefighters' 100 Fund, to the American Diabetes Association, or a charity of one's choice, including one's own family needs. Lisa also loved flowers.

The Firefighter's Prayer

When I am called to duty, God, wherever flames may rage, give me strength to save a life, whatever be its age. Help me embrace a little child before it is too late, or save an older person from the horror of that fate. Enable me to be alert, and hear the weakest shout, quickly and efficiently to put the fire out. I want to fill my calling, to give the best in me, to guard my friend and neighbor, and protect his property. And, if according to Your wilI, must answer death's call, bless with your protecting hand, my family one and all.