Ann Gardner

Ann Gardner passed away October 15, 2009. Born in 1921 to parents Dr. Alpheus and Shirley Hafford, Ann grew up and graduated from high school in Albion, Michigan. She attended Michigan State University where she met her husband Harry Gardner. She left MSU for Washington, DC to work at the Pentagon, but returned to Michigan to marry Harry before he left for the Pacific during W.W. II. They settled in Albion to work, raise three daughters, and involve themselves enthusiastically in the betterment of their community. Though difficult to leave friends and familiar places, it had become Ann#8217;s dream to move to Montana when Harry retired. They built a house and moved to Bozeman in 1986. Ann loved the big sky, the fresh air, the mountains, and being close to daughter Lynne and son-in-law Dave. Ann#8217;s greatest gift was her ability to relate to people. Her hospitality drew many visitors. She always found time to listen. She was accepting, playful, generous, and loving. Her home and table were inclusive, filled with music, laughter, and discussion. Problems were confronted without embarrassment. She was the calm in the chaos, the peacemaker in the conflict, the friend, the mentor, the support. Her caring extended to all of humanity. After suffering a stroke in 2002, Ann moved with Harry into assisted living. They continued to live together at Highgate Senior Living until Harry#8217;s death in March 2009. They were married 68 years. In these last four years, Ann and Harry#8217;s family grew to include the staff of caregivers at Highgate. For each of them, she always had a delighted smile of recognition and a big hug. Throughout her life, Ann was humbly unaware of her talents, and did not wear her struggles openly. She participated in all she did with great energy, creativity, and love. Her antics, adventures, and personality will continue to bring warm smiles and memories to all who knew her. Ann was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Brad and George, sister Jeane Hafford, and daughter Dale Cronkhite. She is survived by daughters Lynne (Dave) McCormick and Shan Brown of Bozeman, and four grandchildren, Kris Brown of St. Ignace, MI, Justin and Kristin Cronkhite, and Courtney Blair of Houston, TX. A celebration of her life will be planned at a later date. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.dahlcares.com