Brenda Lee Knaus

Brenda Lee Knaus January 24, 1980 – August 30, 2026, age 46, from Saginaw, Michigan, beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, and friend passed peacefully amongst family after a brave but valiant battle with cancer. Brenda graduated from Nouvel Catholic Central in 1998. She continued her education at Michigan State University, graduating in 2002 with a Bachelor of Business Administration. She also attended Saginaw State University in 2007, graduating with a teaching certificate and 2013 graduating with her Masters in Literary. Brenda shared her love for learning while teaching ELA and Social Studies for nine years at White Pine Middle School and prior to that she worked at Arthur Hill High School. Most recently, she was employed at Saginaw Career Complex in the Careers and education program, where she taught juniors and seniors in high school. She felt most proud when sharing stories of former students approaching her to share their appreciation and gratitude for her guidance. Her mentorship will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on her community. Brenda was an avid reader with a vivid imagination. She loved to travel, try new foods, and go on adventures. Her favorite place to visit was Jackson, Wyoming, to visit her brother, Dave. As a testament to Brenda’s charitable personality, she was a dedicated member of the Junior League of the Great Lakes Bay Region. Her passion for the Junior League was further demonstrated when she served as its President from 2019 through 2020. Brenda was also a member of many of their committees during her tenure with the League. Her love of the Junior League was apparent in the stories she shared; she adored the community of people there and the adventures they took together. Throughout these phases of Brenda’s life, she gained new friendships and maintained a strong bond with her family. She touched all of our lives in a way that made it effortless to love her. She will forever be remembered as the kindest, most selfless person you could ever meet. She had a heart of gold with a way of making you feel like the most important person in the room. She was filled with endless love and light, a truly beautiful soul who many will miss dearly. Brenda is survived by her parents, Dave and Linda, beloved brother, Dave, Grandma Magdalin, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her treasured dog, Lulu. Cremation has taken place. A memorial gathering will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at the Wakeman Funeral Home Inc. 1218 N. Michigan Ave., Saginaw. In lieu of gifts or flowers, please consider donating to the Junior League of the Great Lakes Bay Region’s Annual Fund, c/o Saginaw Community Foundation, 1 Tuscola St., #100, Saginaw, MI, 48607.

Brenda Lee Knaus

January 24, 1980 - August 30, 2026