Obituary for Brenda Ann Brockman

Brenda Ann Brockman, 60, of West Union, Iowa, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2025, at Gundersen Hospital in La Crosse, Wisconsin. In December 2024, she celebrated overcoming non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a testament to her resilience. Just weeks later, however, her loved ones were devastated to learn that the cancer had unexpectedly spread to her brain.

Brenda was born on September 23, 1964, in Postville, Iowa, to Brad & Arlene Brockman.  She grew up in Ossian, attending DeSales grade school before graduating from South Winn High School in 1983. Reflecting on her life, Brenda once wrote in a version of her own obituary: “My upbringing in small-town USA taught me life lessons that I still use to this day before passing.  Kindness, compassion, laughter and honesty.  Many were not left out of my brutal honesty!” 

Brenda’s professional journey reflected her passion for travel and adventure. From 1985 to 2003, she worked for TWA and American Airlines, holding various roles across Iowa, Missouri, Maryland, Virginia, and Florida. Throughout her airline career, she took on a variety of responsibilities, including reservations, ticketing, baggage services, gate operations, load control, crew scheduling, rerouting, and sales. One of her proudest accomplishments was ensuring her parents could fly for free—a heartfelt gift of gratitude. After being laid off in 2003, she remained in the travel industry, helping others explore the world through corporate travel agencies.

Brenda was known for her big smile and a laugh as bold as her personality. She was a dedicated fan of her favorite teams—the Minnesota Vikings, St. Louis Cardinals, and Iowa Hawkeyes—and loved watching them play. She cherished time spent with friends, often sharing drinks, stories, and plenty of laughter. She left behind these words of wisdom, reflecting her unique humor and perspective on life:

"Do not be sad; there are many memories left. Be strong in your daily life. Accept the fact that shots and beer do not mix, dog poop will always stink, and remember—I’m only a prayer away."

Brenda was preceded in death by her parents, Brad and Arlene Brockman; her brother, Barry Brockman; her fiancé, Kenny Gerleman; brother-in-law, Roy Guenther, as well as her grandparents, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Brenda is survived by her brother, Byron Brockman; sister, Belle (Brockman) Guenther; niece, Bobbi-Jo (Guenther) Molokken, her husband Dan and their children, Aubriana and Mariella; nephew, Levi Guenther and his wife Adaya.  

A Celebration of Life will be held in her honor on Sunday, March 23, 2025, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at the West Union Event Center