Born and raised in Allegan Michigan, Bert founded a strong value of family, friendships, and community. As a bus driver for Allegan Public Schools for 30 plus years, he valued the safety of all the kids he got to bus.

Bert, 71, passed away May 1, 2024 at U of M Metro hospital, in Grand Rapids Michigan, after cardiac complications. He was born on June 5, 1952 to Stanley D. Brouwer and Vivian A. Taylor. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Dawn M. Brouwer (Sutherby); Dawn's parents, Richard (Shad) Suthereby and Norma Sutherby; father, Stanley D. Brouwer; mother, Vivian A. Taylor (Brown); brother, Aaron F. Brouwer; and sister-in-law, Nancy E. Brouwer (Loll).

He left behind his only daughter, Amanda M. Focke (Brouwer) and her husband Britt A. Focke; 3 grandsons, Talon R. Focke (April Focke), Jackson F. Focke and Gannon D. Focke; 3 nieces, Jolene Brouwer (Jerome Rader), Tara Brouwer, and Samantha Brouwer; along with many cousins; and friend/companion, Judy Whitmore.

Bert's immense and deep devotion to his friends and family will not be forgotten. He enjoyed anything with a motor to mechanic on, wood working, and working on projects with loved ones and friends. He loved taking his motorcycle out for a spin any chance he could. Participating in every car show he could attend and enjoying the outdoors and exploring Amanda's state of Wyoming with her, Britt, and their boys, and his favorite Granddog Dually. Being able to share her adventures in the state she chose to move to was a favorite of his. Her adventures in the mountains, and with her show horses brought a smile to his face that he would share with everyone. Talking with Britt about anything mechanical made the smiles from both grow bigger as the conversations dove deeper. His knowledge and enjoyment of all engines was undeniable.

His deep involvement with the community of Allegan led him to volunteering for many occasions, Dj'ing for Walls Bear Swamp Mud Run and Allegan Tigers Baseball, helping with the Allegan Heros Event for Veterans, as well as the Veteran Memorial at the Allegan County Fair for many years. One of his favorite things was seeing all the smiles and joy for everyone at Christmas time. He was the local favorite Santa for more than 35 years, and to many, is the real Santa. He really enjoyed his time as Santa at Badger Tree Farm.

He enlisted in the Navy, but due to an injury at basic training was honorably discharged before his tour of duty could start. He spent the rest of his years serving country and community in any other way he could.

His love for his daughter and her family, all of the family, and all of his friends was greatly noticeable. Words cannot describe how much he will be missed. He was an incredible man with a smile and personality that will light up rooms for people, still, as we all share his stories and remember what a wonderful man my Daddy was.

In honor of his wishes cremation has taken place, and he is watching over Amanda and her family out in Wyoming. A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, August 3, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Allegan Jaycee Park, 200 Monroe Street, Allegan, MI 49010. Flowers, cards, or donations (if you wish) to help with the cost of services and planning for memorial, can be sent directly to Amanda at: 3015 E 1st St, Casper WY, 82609

I cannot thank everyone enough for their love and support of my father. He loved his community and the people in it. His strong example of "always moving forward" has been deeply rooted in me and I plan to honor him throughout the rest of my life. I know so many others are doing the same. For a man who did not like being in the spotlight, he was right there in the center of it for many years, and those years have given so much to so many. Thank you, Daddy, I can't believe I'm doing this without you. You are Loved By So Many.