John Michael Brothers

John Brothers, age 85, beloved, father, grandfather, brother, father-in-law, uncle, friend, and resident wise ass passed away March 11, 2026. John was known for his sense of humor, intelligence, mediocre blackjack skills, and philanthropy. He was the 4th graduating class of the United States Air Force Academy, and had a 26 year career with the Air Force. A B-52 pilot in Vietnam, he earned numerous medals including the Distinguished Flying Cross. Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, along with numerous others. But as he always said, the military was part of his life not his whole life. He went on to another successful career at Science Applications International. He worked his way up from Systems Analyst to Vice President. He opted to retire when he decided he didn’t want to manage people any longer, and he got to retire fairly young. From there, he spent his time with his wife and their dogs. They both volunteered with the Southwest Canine Corp via their pups Bear, and Toby.

During his life, John always made time to either coach soccer for Rob, run the lines for Jennifer’s soccer, haul metric tons of band equipment, take Rob to bar gigs since he was underage, learned that sheer to toe panty hose were a thing for Jennifer’s drill team uniform, and almost never complained about it. He also spent time in Kiwanis assisting with Balloon Fiesta parking, fund raising events, and other philanthropies.

He is survived by his sister, Marcia Christianson of Laguna Hills, CA; son, Rob (Amanda) of Albuquerque, NM; daughter, Jennifer (Johnny) of Colorado Springs, CO, granddaughter, Paige, numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews, friends, cousins, and his beloved blackjack dealers.

He is preceded in death by his wife Gayle, father and mother Nick and Alice Brothers, and several cousins, classmates and fellow soldiers.

Graveside rites will take place at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Albuquerque on March 31, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of donations, the family asks that donations be made to Animal Humane of New Mexico.