Kay L. Gardner

December 20, 1940 - January 23, 2022

Mrs. Kay Lorraine Gardner, age 81, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 23 with her family by her side. She was born on December 20, 1940 to Max and Dorothy (Blease) Bruhn in Grand Haven. A lifelong resident of the area, Kay married Douglas Gardner on September 7, 1963. They spent 56 wonderful years together until Doug passed away two years ago on January 21, 2020. Kay enjoyed exploring Michigan with Doug walking on different hiking trails. She could also be found spending her time reading, cross-stitching, watching movies and was known for her love of cats. Most importantly, was the time Kay was able to spend with her loving family, including her children, Renee (Jeff) Zachariason; Danielle (Dwayne) White and Rebecca (Michael) Tober; grandson, Nicklas Zachariason; great-grandson, Mayson Zachariason; step-grandchildren, Josh White, Brendan Tober, and Brynne Lowe; and sister, Marcia (William) Palermo. Along with her husband, Doug, Kay was also preceded in death by her parents; infant daughter, Ann Marie; and brother, Gilbert Bruhn. A Funeral Service will be held 11:00AM, Monday, January 31 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Visitation with the family will be one hour prior to the service. Kay was a proud breast cancer survivor, the family would be honored if her favorite color, pink, is worn for her service or pink flower arrangements sent. Memorial contributions in Kay’s memory may be directed to Hospice of North Ottawa. Please feel free to visit the family’s online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com.