Brenda Joyce Canfield

She proudly owned and operated Brenda’s Diner alongside her late husband from 1997 to 2017. Together, they created a beloved diner serving comforting meals and built lasting relationships with the community. The diner was a reflection of Brenda’s warmth and dedication to others as she found joy in making people feel welcome.

Brenda was known for her kindness, compassion, and deep love for all around. She could often be found caring for nearby stray animals, as well as filling her yard with seeds to nourish and care for the birds and wildlife around her. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond animals, as she was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Brenda cherished every moment spent her family, creating everlasting memories that they will carry forever. Brenda also found peace in crocheting, creating beautiful pieces that reflected her patience and care.

Brenda is predeceased by her parents, William and Elizabeth (Harris) Canfield; her husband, Apostolos “Paul” Karakatsanis; her brothers, Barry Canfield and Billy Canfield; her sisters, Betty Jane Martin, Beverly Ackerman, and Beatrice Wallace. She is survived by her daughter, Dora Rodriguez; her son, Paco Karakatsanis and wife, Lisa Collins Karakatsanis; her grandchildren, Maria Rodriguez, Rony Rodriguez, Joshua Collins, Damian Karakatsanis (Alexis Miller), Pascxalis Karakatsanis; her great-grandchildren, Shawn Miller, Grayson Karakatsanis, and Carter Karakatsanis; her sisters, Becky Mucklin, Barbara Hoag, and Bonnie Weber; and her brothers, Brian Canfield and Bob Canfield.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Brenda from 1 pm to 5 pm on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the American Legion Post 86, 20 Yates Ave, Newton, NJ.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Lung Association, https://action.lung.org/

Online condolences may be offered below.