Patricia F. Barajas

Patricia F. Barajas, 54, of Leavenworth, formerly of Topeka, passed away May 9, 2011 at Providence Medical Center in Kansas City, KS.

 She was born October 20, 1956 in Topeka the daughter of John and Alice (Mendez) Rivera. Patricia received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education.  She taught kindergarten for a short time.

 Patricia was a customer service representative for ONEOK.

 She enjoyed cooking, reading, doing crossword puzzles and going to the casino.  Most of all she loved spoiling her grandchildren.

 Patricia was a member of Mater Dei Parish.

 She is survived by her husband Abel Rodriguez, Jr., one son Jose Barajas of Topeka, one daughter Leticia Kuhlman (David) of Topeka and five brothers, John Rivera (Marilyn) of Tecumseh, Eddie Rivera of Topeka, Andy Rivera of Wichita and Matt and Aaron Rivera both of Topeka.  Also surviving are grandchildren, Kinsey Kuhlman, Joshua Kuhlman, Elise Barajas and one on the way that will be named Jeremy Kuhlman.

 Patricia will lie in state after 2:00 p.m. Thursday at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home where a parish rosary will be prayed at 6:00 p.m.  Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Friday at Mater Dei’s Holy Name Church.  Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

 Memorial contributions may be made Mater Dei Parish and sent in care of the funeral home, 800 SW 6th  Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.

 Online condolences may be made to www.brennanmathenafh.com.