Our precious daughter, Brooke Folkman, passed away suddenly in 2018 at the age of 23. She was the third of our four daughters and a spark of light and joy within our family. Brooke had an extraordinary ability to connect deeply with others through her vulnerability, openness, and her genuine listening ear. She cherished her family and filled our home with love and laughter, always quick with her wit and humor.

Brooke was passionate about art in all its forms. She was a gifted pianist, her fingers flying across the keys with passion. One of her favorite pieces to play was Waterfall by Jon Schmidt. She also loved playing the guitar and singing, filling our home with music and life. A prolific writer, Brooke penned messages of hope and healing through Jesus Christ, pouring her heart into every word.

Her faith in our Savior, Jesus Christ, was central to her life. Through her personal struggles, she clung to her testimony, hoping that her experiences would inspire others to trust in the Lord.

Brooke Wrote:

“You are never alone. Through your pain, through your heartache, through your losses, through your tears, there is always someone there, holding your hand, trying to buoy you up if you will only let Him. Jesus Christ is there.

He will comfort you, He will help you, and He will rescue you from the dark abyss of anguish and endless pain. I don’t just believe this, but I KNOW this, and I know because I have experienced it.”

When Brooke passed away, our world was shattered! In the depths of our grief we commissioned sculptor Angela Johnson to memorialize Brooke as a Bronze Angel for the Highland City Cemetery in an attempt to bring Hope and Healing to others mourning the loss of a loved one.

Upon completing Brooke’s Angel, Angela invited us to serve as The Chairmen of The Tree of Life Sculpture Garden. We feel that our angel Brooke led us to “The Tree”. Many times we have felt the sweet assurance that Brooke has worked alongside us in this great effort. We prayerfully decided to have Brett retire early, form and run the Tree of Life Nonprofit and raise the necessary funding to complete this magnificent witness of our Redeemer, Jesus Christ.

Our Savior Lives! And because He Lives, we have the sweet assurance that Brooke lives too. We anxiously anticipate the sweet reunion with our beloved daughter!

Brett & Sandy Folkman: Chairmen of The Tree of Life Sculpture Garden