Brenda Joyce Burnquist

It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Brenda Joyce Burnquist. This shining star had plans for a brighter future beyond this life, leaving behind so many who adored her, on February, 15th 2024 at the age of 76.

Brenda’s brief bout with pancreatic cancer was thankfully fleeting and merciful. Averting an imminently painful journey, her sudden passing was caused by cardiac arrest.

Brenda was born on May 28, 1947 in Idaho Falls, ID., to mother Neva Endsley, and father John Broderick. The eldest of three siblings, Brenda was raised in the greater Los Angeles area, and much of her childhood was spent in Seal Beach with her grandmother Nola- a strong influence in her young life. Brenda’s stories of that time were told with a vibrant fervor to match that of her big personality! Eager to grow up, she embraced independence at an early age. Her path took her to live with her father in Alaska, where she finished high-school and enrolled in beauty school to become a hairstylist.

Ever the adventurous spirit, Brenda moved to southern Arizona to work and help her dad, before finally settling in Denver in 1970, where she remained a lifelong resident. After marrying and having two wonderful children, Brenda’s continued pursuit of happiness led her to a job she loved in her later years, complete with valued friendships in her co-workers, and an active social life.

Brenda possessed an endearing quality of engaging and genuinely connecting with everyone she encountered. Her friendly demeanor, and caring nature easily lent itself to fast-formed friendships. Brenda had the biggest heart and shared it with everyone she met! She rarely took life too seriously. Her smiles and laughter were frequent, and she relished entertaining others with her charm, wit, and lighthearted sense of humor.

Brenda’s attention to detail and inherent artistic talents were varied, such as cooking, writing, drawing, and weaving macrame. She loved music, her taste as diverse as her interests, from the 1700’s classical genre to Bob Marley, and of course her favorite: The Grateful Dead.

Brenda advocated for freedom and democracy, believing that everyone should be afforded equal opportunity. She held a strong affinity and appreciation for nature, and she donated what little she had in support of the causes for which she believed.

She will be dearly missed by all who knew her, and leaves behind her daughter Jennifer Contreras, son Daniel Burnquist, brothers James Broderick, and Dean Walchak, two adored grandchildren, Dylan and Leila Burnquist, many nieces and nephews, and an abundance of great friends.

Please join us as we honor Brenda with a Celebration of Life on Memorial Day, Monday, May 27, 2024 1:00 – 5:00pm at The Bar at Plaza 38, located at 3550 W 38th Ave #98, Denver, CO 80211