William Brinker

Dr. William Brinker died February 13,2021 in the Cookeville Regional Medical Center after a brief illness. His beloved wife and children were with him. William was born January 25,1935 to George and Eva (Ringel) Brinker in Drayton Plains, Michigan. He was preceded in death by his parents and two siblings, Howard Brinker and Eileen Nelles. He is survived by his sister Phyllis Fangel, his wife Marilyn (Hardman), his daughter and son-in-law EveLynn and William Holden, his son Nicholas, and his granddaughters Lillie Katherine and Caroline Grace, who held a special place in his heart. He joined the Army in 1956 and was stationed in Frankfurt and West Berlin as a German linguist - a highlight of his life. He received his BA and MA from the University of Michigan and his PhD from Indiana University. He came to the History Department at TTU in 1971, retired in 2003, but continued to teach post-retirement until 2012. He was chairman of the History Department from 1993-2002. He edited SHAFR, a prestigious diplomatic newsletter for 23 years. He edited 2 collections of interviews with local soldiers who served in Vietnam and their families : A Time for Looking Back and We Did Cope. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the William J. Brinker Scholarship for Study Abroad at TTU. The scholarship was endowed by Scott Hickman (History '85). Donations may also be made to the Bryan Symphony Orchestra. A memorial celebration will be held at a later time. Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. 931-526-6111. Share your thoughts and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com