Brenda Hoversten Barto

In 1978, Brenda moved to San Diego, then to western Washington with her daughter Wendy, where she resided until her death. She was married to Joseph Barto from 2005 until his passing in 2023. 

Brenda made a name for herself in the Pacific Northwest in the early 1980’s as she became the first woman to drive Unlimited hydroplane racing, post-World War II, with team Brenda Jones Miss KYYX. During that same period, she achieved an extraordinary physical accomplishment by breaking sit-up records multiple times in pursuit of the Guinness World Record. Beyond these early accomplishments, Brenda applied her many interests and  talents in business ownership, hairstyling, the optical field, and hobbies of gardening, sewing, crafting and researching politics.

Brenda is survived by her daughter, Wendy McCormick Little (Brian Little); grandchildren, Hudson and Autumn Little of Washington; siblings; Sandy (Johnny) Belarde of Washington, sister Debbie Siders of Iowa, brother Hal (Lisa) Hoversten of Washington, sister Tasha Hoversten and stepmother Claudia Hoversten of Alaska; nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews from Washington, Iowa, Alaska, Minnesota, and North Carolina, and brothers-in-law and families of the Barto family. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Joseph A Barto III; mother, Iona Hoversten (Luppes); father, Melvin Hoversten; sister Rhonda Casky; nephews Shawn & Shannon Siders. 

Brenda led a life defined by love, adventure, creativity, courage, and an independent spirit. Brenda will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.

The family is requesting no flowers or cards. Thoughts and prayers are welcome and appreciated.