Brenda Lee Mendoza

Brenda Lee Mendoza, age 58, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2025, in Columbus, Wisconsin.

Born on March 7, 1967. Brenda was married to Manuel Mendoza for 28 years. She was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses in November 1998 and held firm to the hope for resurrection on a paradise earth. Brenda was a loving mother and grandmother, known for her kindness, generosity, and deep love for those around her. She selflessly cared for her parents until their passing. Brenda gave the best kinds of hugs and had a one-of-a-kind laugh-her warmth touched everyone she met.

A woman of many talents and interests; Brenda found joy in cooking Mexican foods for others, sewing projects, playing card games-especially hand and foot-and traveling. She enjoyed the simple things in life, like meeting for a cup of coffee at The Apple Tree. She embraced the Hispanic culture with great affection and learned Spanish as her second language. She was able to connect with people from all walks of life and made many friendships over the years.

She will be deeply missed by her daughter Karina (Nathan) Vertz; grandchildren Carter, Anthony, Allison, and Ava; ex-husband Manuel Mendoza; siblings Norman Goakey, Cherrie (John) Wells, Donald (Heather) Goakey, and John (Lisset) Goakey; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many close friends. Brenda was preceded in death by her parents Lewis and Avis Goakey; many aunts, uncles, and cousins; ex-father-in-law Guadalupe Mendoza; and her beloved family dog Luna.

A Memorial Service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on November 16th at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, W7922 Ollinger Rd., Beaver Dam. Refreshments will follow. For those unable to attend in person, Zoom access is available (Meeting ID: 817 5561 2777 | Passcode: 834633).

Her kindness, warmth, and compassion will be remembered by all who knew her. Her family would like to thank all her wonderful friends and the community for the outpouring of support.