Brenda Kaye Harshbarger

Brenda Kaye (Wagner) Harshbarger, age 82, passed away at Bridgeview Estates in Twin Falls, Idaho, on April 1, 2025.

Brenda was born at home in Prairie City, Iowa, to parents Wendell and Helen (Booher) Wagner. She was told her dad walked two miles over snow covered fences to fetch the doctor in town. The third of six children, she grew up on her family’s farm and attended a country schoolhouse across the street from her home.

After graduating from Prairie City High School in 1961, Brenda studied at Drake University in Des Moines, earning her Bachelor’s of Science in Education. While finishing her senior year of college, Brenda was introduced to a handsome airman named Kyle Harshbarger who hailed from Twin Falls, Idaho. After a brief courtship and engagement, they married in Las Vegas in December 1965. The newlyweds lived in Santa Monica, California, for several years where Brenda taught first grade.

In 1970, Brenda and Kyle purchased a home in Twin Falls where they raised their children, Michael and Helen. Brenda relished her years as a homemaker, volunteering at her children’s schools, teaching a community exercise class, and sewing numerous outfits and costumes.

Brenda returned to work full time in 1989 when she was offered her dream job teaching first grade at Bickel Elementary, where she remained for 15 years. She also became an experienced international traveler, braving the long flights to Okinawa, Germany, and Guam when her son-in-law and daughter were stationed overseas. After retiring, Brenda became an active member of CSI’s Over 60 & Getting Fit group, which blessed her with many wonderful and supportive friendships.

Although she always kept Iowa in her heart, Brenda fell in love with Twin Falls on her first visit. She was a long-time attendee of the Municipal Band summer concerts at City Park. Twin Falls Western Days and the County Fair were highlights of her year, and she always made sure to get a corn dog and mini donuts.

Brenda was preceded in death by her parents, husband Kyle, brothers Frank Wagner and Bruce Wagner, sisters Coralee Wagner (infant) and Deanna Purscell, and daughter-in-law Tina Harshbarger. She is survived by her son Michael Harshbarger of Moscow, ID, daughter Helen (Carlos) Santos of Twin Falls, granddaughters Cora Carpenter and Nichelle Veien, grandson Miguel Santos, great-granddaughter Ellie Carpenter, and sister Arlys Wagner.

Brenda’s family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff at Bridgeview Assisted Living and Heritage Hospice.

At Brenda’s request there will be no service.

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