Cynthia Joyce Berends, 62, of Columbia passed away Wednesday, January 23, 2019 at South Hampton Place. A Memorial Service will take place at 2:00 p.m. Monday, February 4, 2019 at Memorial Funeral Home with a reception to follow for family and friends.
Cindy was born on May 25, 1956 in Manhattan, Kansas, the eldest child of Max and Margaret (Pearson) Berends. She was diagnosed with what today is called Down syndrome. Although the doctor talked to her parents about her limitations, Cindy started proving them wrong. She played and socialized with the children in her neighborhood. She received education in Kansas and Missouri. She ranked high in her first evaluation tests. Assisted by her family, Woodhaven and Boone Country Family Resources; Cindy lived an independent life. She was employed by Central Missouri Subcontracting Enterprises and retired after 39 years of service. She also worked alongside her parents as they served as “Volunteer Camp Hosts” at Missouri State Parks. She was promoted as an official “Volunteer” complete with a nametag and vest.
Cindy enjoyed latch-hooking, swimming and participating in the Adaptive Hand Bell Choir. She was an acolyte at her church, Broadway Christian Church for over 20 years. Cindy was a proud and talented athlete with 26 years of participation in the Special Olympics. May of 2000 marked the 25th anniversary of the Special Olympics Spring Games and Cindy participated in the opening ceremonies, since she had participated in each of those 25 years!
Cindy was a successful, capable and special person who brought love to all those she met. She found joy in the simplest of daily experiences.
Cindy is survived by her father: Max Berends; one sister: Lorrie Berends; one brother: David (Ruth) Berends; nieces: Samatha; Kristin; nephews: Jared; Zachary; Forrest; Luke; Daniel; Joshua; Coltan; her best friends: Norma and Dale and a host of uncles, cousins, great nieces and great nephews.
Memorial donations in memory may be made to: Central Missouri Subcontracting Enterprises or Woodhaven.
