Insurance industry veteran Kevin P. Brooks passed away on April 3, 2020, due to complications of COVID-19.

Brooks had a long and successful career in the insurance industry, focusing on wholesale, specialty and surplus lines.

His career began in 1969 with General Reinsurance, where he rose through the ranks for 32 years, eventually retiring as chairman, president and CEO of General Star Management Company. General Star, which Brooks led from its founding, is a surplus lines organization owned by GeneralCologne Re.

In 2001, Aon Corporation announced that Brooks was appointed president of the specialty property and casualty unit of Combined Specialty Corporation, joining Richard Ravin and David Cole as one of the top executives in the new company.

This announcement came after Aon revealed plans on April 20, 2001, to spin off its underwriting and warranty businesses to its shareholders. It created Combined Specialty Corporation, a new holding company comprised of the underwriting businesses representing accident and health and disability insurance, extended warranties, and specialty property and casualty products.

Brooks also served as NAPSLO president from 1989 until 1990. In addition to this recognition, Brooks was honored with the Charles McAlear award in 1999 during his time at General Star. The award recognized his substantial contributions to the insurance industry.

In addition to his insurance legacy, Brooks was an active member of the U.S. military. He was commissioned as a 2nd LT in the US Marine Corps and served one tour of duty in Vietnam from 1967 to 1968 as an artillery forward observer. He continued to serve as a member of the reserves, completing 30 years of service with the USMCR and retiring as a Colonel in 1992. He ended his military career as Battalion Commander, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marines Reserve Unit in Garden City, Long Island.

Brooks was a resident of Shelter Island and Brooklyn, N.Y. He died in Southampton Hospital with his wife of 53 years, Ginny, at his side. He was 75.

Due to current COVID-19 precautions, a service will be held at Our Lady of the Isle Cemetery for immediate family on April 9, 2020. The family will plan a celebration of his life in the future. Donations in Kevin’s memory can be made to The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation in the name of Colonel Kevin P. Brooks USMCR.

*This story ran prevously in our sister publication Insurance Journal.