Donald Max Gardner

His career started at the Eaton County Road Commission, where he was dedicated to serving the people of Eaton County for 36 years. It would be no surprise for Don to be greeted with baked goods, a friendly wave, or a quick thank you for the above and beyond service he performed.

Don loved his family and his faith. He cared deeply for his three daughters.

His cottage was like a second home. Between any and all handyman tasks, boat rides, and fishing, he always had something to do.

A passion of his was gardening. From starting seedlings to growing a full array of produce, Don had a green thumb for sure. He sure did love his hot peppers.

Don loved to serve his church. From volunteering his time for funeral luncheons, doing small repairs for the church, and volunteering with the ox roast festival, there were not many things that he wouldn’t help with. He was an usher at the church of the Resurrection for many years and a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus 3rd and 4th degree.

Don also was a lifetime member of the OCDS (Order of Carmelite Discalced Secular), and a member of the Lyons Club.

Another passion of Don’s was Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Supplies. A small business that he and his late wife Jean, grew from their living room with just a few rosaries and books, to a thriving Catholic supply store in Fowler, MI. Don loved visiting with customers and doing his handyman work in the store.

He is survived by his spouse Gayle Gardner; sister Toni (Gerald) Shores; children Jody (Paul) Laporte, Leslee (Jeffrey) White, and Mary Gardner; stepchildren Maria (Tim) Blackmer, Myron (Lisa) Lewis, Janine Lewis, Yolanda Hardison and their children; grandchildren Jessica (Matt) Reynolds, Christopher (fiancé Elayna) Laporte, and Cody Gardner; three great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents Lucille (Wendell) Linn; spouse Jean Gardner; sister Betty Saylor; aunt Leona Gackley; and niece Sheri Shores-Dyer.

A visitation for Donald will be held Monday, December 9, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a Rosary to begin at 6:00 PM at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 900 East Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48912. A Mass of Christian Burial will occur Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Church of the Resurrection, 1505 E Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48912. Interment to follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.