Brenda Jean Barton

Brenda Jean Barton, age 66, of Elkhorn, Wisconsin, passed away on October 18, 2025.

Brenda was born on June 6, 1959, in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, to Ronald (Bart) and Mary Ellen Barton. She grew up in Beloit, Wisconsin, and attended Hackett Grade School, Lincoln Junior High, Aldrich High School, and Beloit Memorial High School, graduating with the Class of 1977.

Brenda built a meaningful career serving others through communication, leadership, and calm under pressure. She worked as a police dispatcher for the Waterford Police Department, as a dispatcher for Katzman Trucking, and as a school bus driver for Thomas Bus before spending more than 25 years as a dispatcher for the Lake Geneva Police Department. Brenda was well respected for her steady voice, sharp mind, and unwavering composure in difficult situations—qualities that made her a trusted presence for her fellow officers and community.

Beyond her career, Brenda enjoyed crocheting, reading detective novels, solving crossword puzzles, gardening, and sharing fish frys with family and friends. She especially loved time spent with her grandchildren and nieces, who brought her joy and laughter in countless ways.

Brenda was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Mary Ellen Barton, and her niece, Chelsea Busch.

She is survived by her father Ronald (Bart) Barton; sister Beth (Bill) Busch; brother Doug (Sue) Barton; children Steven Barton and Mary Beth (Michael) Rossman; nieces Kayla Busch, Kelsey (Nick) Marshall, and Megan (Alex) Stasik; and grandchildren Alexandria and Ashley Barton, Connor and Piper Rossman—all of whom will carry her sass, laughter, strength, and stories forward.

Brenda leaves behind a legacy of resilience, humor, and heart that can’t be contained in words—but can still be heard, in the quiet moments, as an echo of that Helen Reddy anthem: “I am woman, hear me roar.” And if you listen closely… you still can.

A celebration of Brenda's life will be held on Saturday November 1st at Community Church Waterford (455 S. Jefferson St. Waterford, WI 53185). Visitation will be from 1:30pm to 2:50pm, followed by a memorial service at 3:00pm.