It would seem that my Mom was not meant to live this life without my Dad by her side. It is with a mix of sorrow and relief we bid adieu to Brenda, who followed her husband Steve into the great beyond just three months after his passing. The pair would have celebrated 40 years of marriage this year. 

Born in the spring of 1967, Brenda wasted no time in making her mark on the world, one sarcastic remark at a time. As her only daughter, I had the unique privilege (and occasional terror haha) of being the target of her expertly crafted guilt trips and random critiques (usually about my hair color choices). 

From her knack for having the perfect disapproving glare to her uncanny ability to deliver the funniest backhanded compliments, Brenda was a force to be reckoned with. She ruled our household with an iron fist wrapped in a velvet glove, and woe betide anyone who dared to interrupt her TV while she was watching Wheel of Fortune! 

In her spare time, Brenda enjoyed bossing everyone around, dispensing unsolicited advice, and executing her signature mom-style phone call hang-up. She was the master of passive-aggressive notes and had a way of always leaving them in the most unexpected places. She also had an odd skill for finding fault in everything, a talent she generously passed down to me, and in turn to Lil Jake. 

Despite her tough exterior, she had a heart of gold buried beneath layers of sarcasm and laughter, and she unquestionably loved us fiercely with all she had to give. I am forever grateful for all the qualities, good and bad, that have helped me become the woman and mother I am today. 

Though Brenda may have been fashionably late to join Steve in the afterlife, there is no doubt they've already resumed their "lively debates" and "witty banter", much to the chagrin of their heavenly host. Knowing they are together is the only thing that brings me solace. Forever missed, until we meet again 🖤

My parents' wishes were to have their ashes taken back home, to Nebraska. In turn, my parents will be honored with two celebration of life gatherings, one in Arkansas and one in Nebraska. These services are intended to accommodate mourners who may be located in various regions, allowing friends, family, and acquaintances to pay their respects. By hosting services in both states, loved ones near and far can attend the gathering to celebrate the life and legacy of the departed, ensuring that their memory is cherished. My hope is to celebrate in Arkansas this spring and Nebraska this summer. Details will be announced once arrangements are finalized. For any inquiries regarding the memorial service, please contact Dawn.

We want to honor Steve and Brenda in a meaningful manner, but we need your help to make this possible. Your generous contributions will go directly towards covering the costs of the cremation, an urn, and a meaningful piece of memorial jewelry containing both parents' ashes. This beautiful keepsake will allow me to keep their memory close to my heart at all times. We understand that not everyone may be in a position to donate, and your thoughts, prayers, and kind words are also invaluable to us during this difficult time. Thank you all, in advance, for your support, generosity, and for helping us honor Steve and Brenda's memory in a unique and special way. Please use this Gofundme link - https://gofund.me/fe2a0947 Or CashApp $MrsKaenel.