Brenda Dorothea Malin 

Sep 20, 1951 - May 28, 2024

Brenda Dorothea Malin, 72, of Kansas City, Missouri passed away on May 28, 2024, peacefully, surrounded by comfort and love. Born September 20, 1951, in Marshall, Missouri, she was the daughter of the late Louis H. Kruger, Jr. and Avalene (Hogan) Kruger. She was preceded in death by her husband, Daniel Malin and sister Dr. Linda Kruger. 

Brenda was a graduate of Hickman High School and continued her education at the University of Missouri-Columbia, where she earned her master’s degree in art history and education. Her passions in life were teaching, serving the Kansas City, Kansas school district as an elementary art teacher, leading Camp Fire Girls as a counselor named “Pockets,” and speaking in any setting to an audience wishing to learn about art history, cultural influences, or the amazing world around us. She possessed a wealth of knowledge and an abundance of creativity and humor. Watercolor was her favorite outlet, but her inspirations were also delivered through random doodles and drawings, projects such as jewelry making, sculpture, weaving, or clay. She was an avid animal lover and an accomplished harpsichord player. Celebrating with family was her most cherished of memories, along with her aspirations of being a park ranger, veterinarian, and pilot. She would encourage us to keep learning, living in this world with wonder, imagining and dreaming with those around us. 

Brenda is survived by her brother Greg Kruger, daughters Laura (Heath) Hayden and Zosia (Jake) Malin, and grandchildren Olivia, Alicia, and Ava. There will be a celebration on Life on Friday, June 14 from 10 - 11:30 AM, at Maple Hill Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, planting a tree as a living tribute in Brenda’s honor is appreciated. Trees can be planted in the National Park or State Forest of your choosing by contacting: A Living Tribute alivingtribute.org and info@alivingtribute.org

In Honor of Brenda’s Memory
Casual and colorful attire is encouraged, Birkenstocks and Crocs a plus. 
Works of art created or inspired by Brenda can be brought for sharing.

A portfolio of Brenda’s work is also available online:
brendamalinmemoir.com