It is with profound sadness that Brenda Sue Vowels, 82, of Kalkaska, Michigan, passed away on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, with her children at her side.
Brenda was born on December 6, 1942, in Wayne City, IL, to Lester Dale “Pat” & Augusta Mae Crocker. Brenda married Stanley G. Waggoner on January 23, 1961, in Bridgeport, IL. Over a 30-year period, they raised their three children, Danielle 1961, Gordon 1964, and Sara 1969, residing in Bridgeport and Mattoon, IL until relocating to Kalkaska, Michigan in 1976.
Brenda is survived by her husband James “Jim” D. Vowels of Kalkaska, Michigan, her brother Dale Crocker of Wayne City, IL, her children: Danielle (Peter) Backes of North Mankato, MN, S. Gordon Waggoner II of Traverse City, MI, Sara (Joe) Waterman of Rapid City, MI, and her step-children Amanda Vowels of South Glens Falls, NY and James W.“J.W.” Vowels of Kalkaska, MI, along with her many precious grandchildren & great grandchildren.
Brenda was preceded in death by her brothers, Charles “Chuck” Crocker, Olan “Bub” Crocker, and Lavern Crocker.
Throughout Brenda’s life, she was a Girl & Boy Scout leader for her children, a volunteer for multiple organizations, waitress and past owner of Carefree Cove on Manistee Lake. She loved to read, especially her Louis L’Amour collection, along with walking with her many Schnauzers. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Eves Club, Kalkaska Academia Club, 100+ Women Who Care and the Red Hat Society. Brenda had a passion for charities, devoting most of her time to the local K.A.I.R. Chapter.
Brenda has been cremated, and a celebration of life service was held October 18th, at the Timber Ridge Resort in Traverse City, MI.
Locally, a memorial service will be held at 11am on Saturday, October 25th, at the Archie Sanders Chapel at Thomason Cemetery in Wayne City, IL. Visitation will be from 10:30am until the time of service at the chapel. Burial will follow in Thomason Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in the name of Brenda Vowels be made to Kalkaska County Library, Kalkaska Animal Shelter or simply plant a flower in her honor. The Johnson and Vaughn Funeral Home is in charge of the local arrangements. Condolences can be made to the family at www.facebook.com/johnsonvaughnfuneralhome.
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