DENISE RENEE SHORT

January 8, 1962 – May 23, 2022

Denise Renee Short (Witmer) was born on January 8, 1962, in Delano, California, and went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on May 23, 2022, surrounded by her family. She passed away from complications due to a difficult heart surgery.

Denise lived in Bakersfield, CA most of her life and attended Highland and Horace Mann Elementary schools, Chipman Jr. High and Highland High School where she met and fell in love with her future husband, Michael Dean Short and they were married on September 11, 1982.

She is survived by her husband, Michael; their sons Christopher (Kate); Lucas (Alanna); Blake; 3 granddaughters, whom she deeply loved; parents, Phil and Betty Witmer; sisters Cheryle Delzoppo (Mario); Sandra Adams (Joe) and Suzanne Washburn (Dave). Mother and Father-in-law, Aline and Norman Short, sisters-in-law Terri (Chuck) and Kim. Denise loved all her family and cherished each one.

Denise came to know Christ at an early age. She grew up in a household where the Bible and music were cherished. She loved singing and playing her cello. Denise spent the majority of her life faithfully serving her local church (Fruitvale Community Church, now RiverLakes Community Church) in the music ministry as a vocalist. Outside of serving in the life of the church, she formed relationships and shared her hope with foreign exchange students at Cal State University Bakersfield through campus ministry.

Her children remember her as a loving and caring mother, a wonderful teacher, a passionate believer in Jesus Christ, and she always opened her mouth with wisdom and the teaching of kindness was on her lips (Prov. 31:26). These beliefs and values stood as the core foundation by which she and Michael raised their family. Every morning, Denise would read the Living Word to her children to train them up in the truth of the gospel and the characteristics of Christ, seeking to raise men of true faith. She was never ashamed of her faith and shared her belief in Christ with friends, neighbors, and strangers alike. Her heart's desire was that all would come to know the saving love of Christ Jesus.

In memory of Denise, donations may be made to RiverLakes Community Church Worship Ministry, in her name.

A Memorial Service will be held at RiverLakes Community Church on June 18, 2022 at 10:00 AM.