Margaret Geraldine “Gerry” Gardner

Gerry was born in Sagola, MI on September 26, 1928 a daughter of the late Margaret (Fraker) and Elmer Woods. She moved to Goodman, WI and was a graduate of the Goodman High School, Class of 1946. She married the late Leonard Gardner in 1948 and they moved to Crystal Falls, MI in 1949. Gerry and Len operated the Gardner Oil Co. for many years and relocated to Republic in 1959.

Gerry was a member of St Augustine Catholic Church and the Altar Society, along with being a proud homemaker. She was instrumental in the formation of the Republic St. Vincent de Paul Store and did various volunteer work for over 30 years, being honored once with the volunteer of the year award. Gerry had been active with the West End Food Coalition. Most importantly, Family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren where the center of her World.

Margaret is survived by 4 children: Ralph (Debbie) Gardner; Rodney (Linda) Gardner; Lynn Koski all of Republic; Randy (Yvonne) Gardner of Ishpeming; grandchildren: Angela (Jim) Hytinen, Jeri (Kevin) Ballent, Jen (Phil) Gravedoni, Brian (Wendy) Gardner, Jim (Mindy Nardi) Koski, Steven (Daniel Estrada) Koski, Danny (Kayla Brennan) Koski, Kyle (Josie Leone Pidd) Gardner & Darren (Cara) Bartle, Marissa, Jacob and Alexis Nelson;great grandchildren: Anna & Emily Hytinen, Harper Ballent, Madeline & Everett Gravedoni, Harper, Norah, Owen & Liam Bartle, Tia Mattilaalong with several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Len Gardner; sister Frances Long; daughter-in-law Linda Lee; and son-in-law Gene Koski.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, a private Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St Augustine Catholic Church in Republic with Fr. Dan Moll officiating. Interment will take place at the Republic Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Gerry’s grandsons.

Gerry’s obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.