Feb.
1, 1913 - July 24, 2010SOUTH BEND - Minna Dorothea Gardner, 97, was born February 1, 1913, in South Bend, the daughter of John and Erna (Neumann) Strom. On June 10, 1933, in South Bend, she married Charles U. Gardner, who preceded her in death in 1985. One brother, John Strom, also preceded her in death in 2006. She is survived by two sons, Duane Gardner of South Bend and Jan (Celia) Gardner of Atlanta, GA; and a daughter, Judith Gardner of South Bend. She also has three grandchildren, Robin (Christopher) Jaworski of Union, MI, Kevin (Tamra) Gardner of Phoenix, AZ, and Jennifer (Brent) Gardner-Dixon of Fort Benning, GA; and six great-grandchildren. While in South Bend, Minna was employed at the South Bend Water Works and Associates Investment Corp. from which she retired. She volunteered for the South Bend Public Library for 19 years, was a member of the Order of Eastern Star, and sang with the Sweet Adelines. She loved cards and played in Tournament Euchre at the KC, BK Club, PNA, and at Chippewa. She also played bridge and poker. She bowled in leagues for 35 years. Minna also enjoyed her beautiful flowers. Minna's schooling began in a one-room school house, then at Lincoln School, Riley High and Central High School from which she graduated in 1931. She can be remembered for her continuous sweet smile. There will be no formal services. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Contributions in memory of Mrs. Gardner may be made to Pet Refuge, 2300 West 6th Street, Mishawaka, IN 46545. The Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel, 3718 South Michigan Street, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences to the Gardner family may be sent to www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.