Brenda Ann DeWitt Giordano

Brenda Ann DeWitt Giordano passed away on Tuesday, July 12 from complications following a brain aneurysm. Brenda was the beloved daughter of Gayle Ann DeWitt (nee Jacobs) and Gerald Leon DeWitt. She is survived by her dear stepmother, Hinda Bauer DeWitt; sisters Caroline DeWitt (Michael), Janet Bauer Pickert (Doug); brother Brad Bauer (Carrie); nephews and nieces Ben Pickert, Raymond Bauer, Christian Bauer, Erin Pickert, Makayla Bauer; her uncle James Jacobs, and a wealth of cousins and friends.

Brenda was born on February 15, 1964 in Kansas City, Missouri. Those who knew her as a child, most likely remember her as the little blonde with the big personality, the snazzy clothes, and the thick disheveled head of hair. Those who knew her as a teen will remember her as a popular, fun loving girl and a loyal friend—one who would stand up to a bully and defend a buddy. Decades later, her father would concede she was a bit of a handful. She was fun! As an adult, she lived creatively. She was a colorful aunt, a delightful sibling, and a loving, companionable daughter. She truly sparkled, and her presence will be deeply missed when we gather as a family.

She spent her early life surrounded by an abundance of loving, supportive, and truly remarkable people: proud grandparents, her great aunts and uncles, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Her maternal grandmother, Christine Hardie Jacobs, helped raise Brenda after the tragic loss of her mother when she was ten. She was also blessed by the support of her relatives, her caring neighbors, and the neighborhood children. We are forever grateful to these people.

She attended the North Kansas City Schools and CMSU. She spent most of her career in the business world but found her true calling as a caregiver. She attended Gracemor Christian Church. Brenda was a passionate member of Liberty AA. In addition to her cats, she looked after two ferals and actively sought to provide veterinary care for them.

Brenda was a charming person—best described as “just as beautiful on the inside as she was on the out.” She was admired as sweet, kind, caring, and loving. In addition, she possessed a fabulous sense of humor and was quite witty. She was very observant and saw humor often overlooked by others. This made her a talented, entertaining storyteller. She brought laughter to any occasion. Her warmth drew others to her, and she enjoyed a large, diverse group of loyal friends.

Brenda had many interests and talents. She adored art, music, animals, poetry, shopping, collecting unique objects, socializing, and world travel. She was highly creative and enjoyed decorating, fashion, writing, gift giving, and creating enjoyable experiences for others.

Brenda battled Non-Hodgkin lymphoma and had been cancer-free for two years. She was especially grateful for the love and support she received from the people in her life during this difficult time.

Brenda cherished her family, her dear kitties, her friendships, and life. The loss of her beautiful soul leaves us heartbroken. May our memories of her comfort us until we meet again.

Our family wishes to extend our sincerest thanks to those who cared for Brenda at KU Medical Center.

If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Lymphoma Research Foundation, KU Medical Center Department of Neurology, or The Orphan Kitten Club.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mcgilleyantiochchapel.com for the DeWitt/Bauer family.