GARDNER, Danielle    Age 79, of Benzonia

Danielle Lorraine Gardner passed peacefully on September 24, 2019, with her loving husband Harry at her side, after a three-year battle with ALS. She was born February 19, 1940, to Daniel and Mary Kovoch in Detroit, Michigan.

A graduate of Taylor Center High School (Class of 1958), Danielle married Harry Gardner on August 11, 1958 and together had three wonderful children, Denise, Dennis and Donald.  Early on, Danielle was a homemaker, a few years later she worked at her parents' business (Danny's Lounge – Trenton). In 1976, she began her 17-year employment at Frito-Lay in Allen Park, Michigan.

After retirement, Harry and Danielle moved to Benzonia, Michigan, where Danielle could be found volunteering as a Lifetime Member of Weight Watchers, baking for fundraisers at Paul Oliver Hospital and The Maples Medical Care Facility Blueberry Festival. She assisted with Special Olympics, taking residents of the Maples to The Gathering Place for social events and dancing, as well as, participated in Relay for Life walks. Together with Harry, they volunteered at The Maples with a Bunco Club, and provided fishing charters for children with disabilities.

Danielle had many passions in life. She loved fishing, and could frequently be found on Lake Michigan and numerous inland lakes. It was well known when on Lake Michigan, she was the Captain of the "Early Bird". An avid baker and cake decorator, Danielle was known for her spectacular wedding, anniversary, and birthday cake creations. A huge Red Wing fan, and with three children playing youth hockey, she was active in the early years of the Taylor Hockey Association. This included helping form the first, girl's youth hockey team in Taylor. She loved to dance at any opportunity, especially to the sounds of old Motown songs and polkas. Her travels included trips to Colorado, Alaska and Hawaii, which she did several times.

Danielle was preceded in death by her parents Daniel and Mary Kovoch, brother Lawrence, and daughter Denise. She is survived by her devoted husband Harry, sons Dennis (Lisa) and Donald.  Loving grandmother of Nichole, Aaron, Rebecca and David.  Great-Grandmother of Mackenzie, Makayla, Mia and Mohamed.  Dear sister of Theodore (Patricia), Kathy (Larry).

Visitations will be on Sunday October 6, 2019 from 12:00-5:00 p.m. at Howe-Peterson Funeral Home in Taylor, Michigan.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Monday October 7, 2019, 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul United Church of Christ in Taylor, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, it is the wishes of the family for donations to be sent to:

Susan Mast ALS Foundation - Northern Michigan

In Memory of Danielle Gardner

PO Box 5712

Traverse City, Michigan 49696

Or

St. Paul United Church of Christ

24158 Goddard Rd.  Taylor, Michigan 48180

Memorial Fund – In Memory of Danielle Gardner