Meadows Brenda Laakso

It is with heavy hearts that we share the unexpected passing of Brenda Laakso-Meadows, of Gladstone, MI, beloved soul whose kindness, strength, and unwavering spirit touched the lives of all who knew her. Brenda departed this life on September 26, 2025, at the age of 58.

Brenda was born August 11, 1967, in Marquette, MI. She grew up in Chatham, MI and graduated from Eben High School in 1985. Brenda lived a life full of compassion, laughter, and quiet wisdom. She was a devoted sister, friend and counselor, and someone who always made time for others whether through a warm smile, a listening ear, or a helping hand.

Brenda earned her Bachelor of Science in History at Northern Michigan University in 1990. She then went on to earn a Master Degree in Historical Preservation from Eastern Michigan University in 1996. She was awarded the Lou Allen Award, while attending NMU, and graduated summa cum laude, with a 4.0 GPA, from both universities! She worked for several years, as site historian, at Fayette Historic Townsite. Highlights in Brenda's career were when she was featured on the Travel Channel guiding them through the many historic buildings of Fayette. She also had an article published in Michigan History magazine that she was very proud of. In recent years, Brenda worked as a wedding officiant and enjoyed uniting couples, in a wide variety of locations, across the UP. Brenda's passions included decorating, restoring old furniture pieces, reading, research, gardening, canning, and at one point, even scuba diving in the Great Lakes! She loved nature and was very proud of her beautiful flower, herb and vegetable gardens. She loved watching and feeding the many species of birds that visited her feeders year around. She was an amazing chef who loved cooking a wide variety of foods- especially Mexican food. Brenda's legacy is one of love, resilience, and generosity.

She is survived by her sisters, Laura (Hugh) Celestino of The Woodlands, TX and Rennae Ryan (Ed) of Gillett, WI; twin brother, Brian (Carrie) of Chatham, MI; significant other, Dan McNair of Gladstone MI; as well as many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends. Brenda was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Roberta; brothers, Kevin and John; and her beloved dog, Jack. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her and the many wonderful stories we continue to share.

A small private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Brenda's life was truly a gift to us all, and her spirit will remain a guiding light.

The Crawford Funeral Homes assisted the family.