Darcia Elaine Gale

Darcia Gale, born on August 22, 1935, in Wyoming, Michigan, joined her heavenly family on July 22, 2025.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Elsie and Darcy Kent; her eight siblings; her devoted husband, Wendell, her son, Steve Howard and great granddaughter McKinley.

Darci is survived by her children: Peggy (Karl Schnapp) Kneen, Curt (Karen) Howard, Ken (Val) Howard, and Randy (Joy) Howard; stepsons Glenn (Mattie) Gale and Dave (Connie) Gale; 11 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and many cherished nieces, nephews, and friends-both near and far.

In 1992, Darci and Wendell moved to Sebring, Florida, where they became active members of Union Church of Avon Park. They embraced the Florida lifestyle, spending their days golfing, playing cards and Bingo with friends.

Darci had an extraordinary talent for cross-stitching, creating stunning handmade works that now adorn the walls of loved ones. Her most treasured creations were the baby blankets and outfits she lovingly stitched to celebrate each new great-grandchild. She was also famous for her thoughtfulness-sending cards for every birthday, holiday, and anniversary. Even the family pets received a birthday card from "Grandma."

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Darci was the Detroit Tigers' #1 fan. While she followed the Tampa Bay Rays during her years in Florida, her loyalty to the Tigers never wavered-especially when the two teams faced off. Her love for sports extended well beyond the TV screen; she was a familiar face in the stands at her children's and grandchildren's games throughout Michigan.

Strong, independent, and full of life, Darci had a heart of gold and a smile that could light up any room. Her laugh was contagious, her spirit radiant.

She spent her final five years in Perrysburg, Ohio, at Waterford Commons, where she rediscovered a youthful joy. She made countless friends, joined in on numerous activities, and laughed daily. She often said these were some of the best years of her life.

Darci was the matriarch of her family-deeply loved and truly irreplaceable. Her legacy of kindness, laughter, and love will live on in everyone who knew her.

A memorial service will be held at a later date in Grand Rapids, Michigan.