The Shadow
Brenda Sue
VanMaaren
Bartocci
Brenda Sue VanMaaren Bartocci, age 68, of 316 Main Street, Clifton Forge, Virginia died on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at her residence.
Brenda was born October 25, 1957 in Kalamazoo, MI to the late Richard VanMaaren and Sara Schreuder VanMaaren. She received a degree in business, and was an Administrative Assistant for the Alleghany Highlands School Board and was an avid quilter. She married Charles Bartocci on November 3, 1979, which brought a lifetime of love and adventure.
In addition to her husband, Charles, of Clifton Forge, Brenda is survived by four sons, Charlie Bartocci (Tiffany), Philip Bartocci (Sara), Greg Bartocci (Cassie), and Eric Bartocci (Dani); siblings, Richard “Rick” VanMaaren (Jane) and Joan Baylor (Tim); six grandchildren, Colton, Emerson, Harper, Cora, Theodore, and Penelope; her husband’s siblings, John Bartocci (Sue), Mary Bartocci, Steve Bartocci (Bella), Fran Lemley, and Paul Bartocci (Charyl); and a number of nieces and nephews.
In keeping with her wishes, Brenda’s body has been cremated. The family will visit with friends on Friday evening, May 15, 2026 from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM at Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge. A memorial service for her is being held in the chapel following the family visitation. The family has requested that any friend attending the visitation, who was fortunate to have received one of Brenda’s handmade quilts in the past, please bring the quilt and share the story of how Brenda’s gift blessed them.
Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge is handling arrangements.
To send condolences to the family online, please visit www.nicelyfuneralhome.com
