D. Brook Bartlett ’59

Brook Bartlett, the distinguished chief judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri, died in Kansas City on January 21, 2000, of bone cancer. The Kansas City Star called Brook a "community hero."

Born in Kansas City, Brook came to Princeton from Pembroke Country Day. He played lightweight football, rugby and golf, majored in politics, was a chapel deacon, and joined Colonial Club where he served as house chairman. He earned his law degree from Stanford in 1962.

Brook's career in public life started in 1969 when Senator Jack Danforth '58, then Missouri Attorney General, appointed him as an assistant and later first assistant attorney general.   In 1981 he was appointed to the federal bench. Danforth, speaking at Brook's funeral service attended by over 400 mourners, said that Brook "showed how government can earn the respect of its people."

Aided by the love and encouragement of family and friends, many from Princeton, Brook battled his disease with dignity and determination for almost three years. His wife, Karen, said that he had been "stunned" by the outpouring of support.

Brook is survived by Karen; three daughters, Julia, Amanda and Polly; a son, Linton; a brother, Edward '61, and two granddaughters. To the family of one of our best, the class offers its deepest sympathy.

The Class of 1959