Brenda I. Barela

Brenda Irene Barela, eldest child of Robert C. Carr and Marcella I. Peterson, was born on January 31, 1961, at McCook, NE and was received into the arms of Jesus, on Jan 12, 2013. The family lived in Maywood, NE until they moved to Cozad, NE, on August 20, 1966. Brenda attended Cozad City Schools, Class of 1979. Her career in nursing began in 1979 in Kensington, KS where she worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at the nursing home. She attended University of Nebraska-Kearney, and was enrolled in the pre-nursing program in 1980-81. She was awarded Deans List while being a single mother for her 2-year-old son. Following the birth of her second son in 1982, Brenda stayed home to take care of her children. She later enrolled in the nursing program at Mid Plains Community College, and graduated as a Registered Nurse in May of 1996. She began working at Southview Manor Nursing Home, and was promoted to Director of Nursing. She worked at several nursing homes in the area, and recently 4 years at the Lexington Regional Health Center. Brenda and Nat Barela were married on May 26, 2000. They lived happily in Cozad, NE. They adopted their third son on September 5, 2012. Brenda accepted Jesus as her savior and was baptized at the age of 10. She attended the Cozad Christian Church from the age of 5 until she moved to Kansas. Brenda enjoyed reading, crocheting, knitting, and gardening. She liked listening to country music, particularly Garth Brooks. She loved spending time with her family, especially with her two granddaughters, Aurora and Ruby Bell. Brenda became ill in October 2012. She was an efficient, conscientious and loving caregiver in spite of having a serious and very painful medical condition. Brenda was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Brenda was preceded in death by her father and grandparents. Brenda leaves to mourn her passing, her husband Nat Barela of Cozad; three sons Aaron (Fay) of Denver, CO., George (Brandee) of Lincoln, NE, and Bryson of Cozad; her mother and step-father, Marcella and Charles Carothers of Florida; two granddaughters, Aurora and Ruby of Lincoln, Nebraska; two brothers, Robert (Deb) Carr of MS, and David Carr of York, NE; also a close and dear friend since childhood, Cheryl Canas of Cozad; and other relatives, many friends and co-workers. A memorial has been established in her memory. Condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, January 15, 2013 at 2 p.m. at the Cozad Christian Church with Pastor Jeremy Jech officiating. Brenda will be cremated per her wishes. Inurnment will be at a later date. There will be no visitation.