Velma Christine Berens or "Miss Chris" as many knew her was called to be with our heavenly father on January 6, 2021 at the age of 64. She was a devout Catholic and attended St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Woodstock for over 20 years.  "Chris" was born on January 10, 1956 in Atlanta, Georgia.  During her life she never met a stranger and loved all as her brothers and sisters in Christ. She was a loving daughter to her Mother, Barbra Dowell and Father, Carl Dowell. A loving sister to her brothers, Bubba, Doug and Ken Dowell. A faithful wife to her husband of 45 years, Steve Berens.  A loving and giving mother to her 2 sons Michael and Joshua. And a joyful Grandmother to her Grandson Oliver.

During her time with us, Chris served as the Life Teen Youth Minister at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church for over 19 years. As youth minister she cherished leading teens and all she encountered closer to Christ. Through her own style of relational ministry, she was able to heal, give hope, and inspire people to grow in their relationship with the Lord.  All that knew her, loved her as she was a living example of God's Love. In addition to youth ministry, she led the Thanksgiving Food Basket Drive which fed over 500 families each year. She also ran the Coat and Blanket Drive at St. Michaels Church delivering warm clothes and blankets to numerous homeless missions and battered women shelters. If she saw a need, she always helped and encouraged others to help too. Prior to being a youth minister, she was Co-Owner of Barb's Hallmark which had locations in Woodstock and Town Lake. She had a passion for cards, gifts, and all things Christmas. The Hallmark stores were just another way for her to connect with people and share God's Love.

There will be a viewing on Monday, January 11th, 2021, from 5 PM to 8:00 PM, followed by a rosary service at Lakeside Funeral Home in Woodstock.  The funeral will be on Tuesday, January 12, 2021, at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Woodstock at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to St. Michael the Archangel's Life Teen Program. https://www.saintmichaelcc.org/lifeteen-donation-page