Carmen Kathleen Breen

Carmen Kathleen Matthew Breen, 94, of Templeton, CA passed away peacefully on April 18, 2016 at Vineyard Hills Health Center in Templeton. She was born February 19, 1922 in Fredonia, KS to Minnie Helen (Anderson) and Walter Oliver Matthew. Carmen was married to her high school sweetheart, Daniel David Breen, from December 3, 1943 until he passed away on May 1, 1980. She was also preceded in death by three of her four children Kathleen Helen (Donald) Shockey, Michael Matthew (Diane) Breen, and Sally Elizabeth (Richard) Green, as well as her brother Jack Mills (Mary) Matthew of Wichita, KS. Carmen graduated from Wesley School of Nursing in Wichita, KS during World War II and enjoyed a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse in Kansas and California. Her dedication to the profession influenced both of her daughters, a granddaughter and her sister to become RNs. She had a strong conviction in her faith and a passionate loyalty to her family; offering help, support and comfort to anyone in need. Her natural ability to be a great confidante to others resulted in many enduring friendships. She was a seasoned worldwide traveler, with Hong Kong being her much-loved destination. Carmen was also a very skilled and extremely lucky bingo player. Carmen is survived by many people who love her including her son, Danny (Sherry) Breen of Templeton, CA; her sister Patricia Ruth (Joe) Erdman of Wichita, KS; eight grandchildren (Julie, Ben, Mike, Kelly, Kerry, Sasha, Hannah and Paul … she loved you all!), six great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and in-laws. Special thanks to all of the dedicated caregivers at Vineyard Hills Health Center who contributed significantly to the quality of Carmen’s life. Services will be held Thursday, April 28, 2016, at 10:00am at Holy Cross Cemetery in Culver City, CA.