Gunnery Sergeant Alan E. Brink, Sr., USMC, Retired, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully and quietly following an extended illness at the Eastlake Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Elkhart on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at 6:55 a.m. He was 72 years old. With deep respect and gratitude, we salute his lifelong service to his country, his dedication to his family, and his unwavering faith.

Alan was born in LaPorte, Indiana, on April 6, 1952, to the late Richard L. and Lucille G. (Bottorff) Brink. From an early age, Alan exhibited the strength, resilience, and sense of duty that would define his life. He married the love of his life, Mary Jean Long, in Knoxville, Tennessee, on August 30, 1975, and together they built a life filled with love, faith, and commitment. Their marriage, lasting nearly 46 years, was a testament to enduring devotion. Mary remained faithfully at his side until her passing in June of 2021. Their love and shared values were the foundation of their family, and her loss was deeply felt by Alan and all who knew them.

In addition to his beloved wife, Alan is also preceded in death by his son, Richard J. Brink; his brother, David A. Brink; his sisters, Rose Marie Templeton, Debby L. Brink, Edna Lundy, and Judy K. Bottorff; and a nephew, Charles Coffin. Though they have departed, their memory remained close to Alan's heart throughout his life.

Left to cherish Alan's memory are his son, Alan E. Brink, II, and his daughter, Janie E. Brink, both of Elkhart, who were a great source of pride and joy to him. His family also includes his brother, Fredrick Brink of Florida; sisters, Cindy Brink of Elkhart and Penny (Carl) Lewandowski of Lockport, New York; nieces and nephews  Dr. Crystal Lewandowski-Miller of Lynnfield, Massachusetts, Todd Templeton of Ocala, Florida; Julenea and Darrell Moody, both of Elkhart; and Kristinia Austin of Three Rivers, Michigan. Additionally, Alan's legacy extends through his great-nieces and great-nephews, including Tyler Templeton; Drake and Wraith Dvanallstine; Amelia and Benjamin Miller; and Jasmine and Gabriella Salsbury. His family also includes great-great-nieces and nephews, Charlotte and Kaycee Templeton, who will carry his memory into future generations.

Alan dedicated 20 years of his life (1971-1991) to honorable service in the United States Marine Corps, where he achieved the rank of Gunnery Sergeant (E-7). As a decorated Marine, he completed two tours of duty in Vietnam and served multiple tours in Okinawa, as well as in various locations throughout the United States. His service was marked by courage, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to his fellow Marines and his country. The discipline and leadership skills he honed during his military career remained with him throughout his life, shaping him into a man of integrity and honor.

Following his retirement from the Marine Corps in 1991, Alan applied his strong work ethic and technical expertise as an inspector for the Gillette Manufacturing Company in Elkhart. He also pursued further education, earning an associate's degree in Electronics and Internet Technology. However, his health eventually required early retirement. Despite these challenges, he remained steadfast in his faith and devoted to his family and church.

Alan was deeply committed to his Christian beliefs, and his faith guided him in all aspects of life. As a dedicated member of the Prayer House Church of God in Christ, he served as Superintendent of Sunday School and President of the Young Men's Christian Council. He also shared his wisdom and devotion as a minister when called upon, always ready to uplift and inspire those around him. His faith was a source of great strength, especially during his later years, and he found comfort in the fellowship and support of his church community.

Services honoring Alan's life will be held at the Prayer House Church of God in Christ, 1114 Cone Street, Elkhart, on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Public visitation and viewing will begin at 12 noon. The Reverend Robert Simon will officiate the service, and burial will follow at Prairie Street Cemetery in Elkhart, Indiana. The United States Marine Corps Funeral Honor Guard and the Elkhart County United States Marine Corps League will perform full military honors, a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated so much of his life in service to his nation.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in Alan's honor to Tunnel 2 Towers, 2361 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10306 or to the Prayer House Church of God in Christ, 1114 Cone Street, Elkhart, Indiana 46514.

Alan E. Brink, Sr. will be remembered as a dedicated Marine, a loving husband, father, and grandfather, a man of faith, and a loyal friend. His legacy of service, integrity, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Semper Fi, Gunnery Sergeant. Your watch has ended, but your spirit remains eternal.