Marise Mae Gardner Nath
Born April 19, 1934 Died October 25, 2020
Survived by brothers Bernell (Sharon), Jerry (Sharon) Gardner; children Michael (Kim), Steven and Carrie; 7 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren; nieces, nephews and their families. Preceded by parents Leonard "Happy" Gardner, Anne Gardner, sister Darlene Gardner Sullivan (Bill).
Born in Fairview, MT, Marise was raised on her parent's land. She was a lifelong lover of her Montana roots and was known for her trademark laugh and effervescent spirit. Marise was an active member of her church, cherished her family and celebrated her many talents throughout her schoolyears in choir, band, as a cheerleader and was voted the "Gal With the Greatest Gams" her Senior year.
After a brief stint at Concordia College in Moorhead, MN, she moved to Omaha, NE, where she married and gave birth to her three children. Embracing motherhood with that same spirit she was an active member of the PTA, Christ the King Lutheran Church and numerous other organizations. She was a seer and a dreamer. She had a way of looking at life, knowing that there was something out there, something attainable, and she supported that in her children.
A gypsy spirit, she loved travelling the blue highways. Her entrepreneurial spirit was indomitable, the proudest accomplishment which was the Stuff-n-Such, a gift shop she and her sister created and ran in Fairview in the 80's. Many folks came to chat, drink a cup o' joe and find something special for their families. Marise returned to Omaha where she spent the remainder of her time battling Alzheimer's and sharing memories with her family. Her spirit will live on through her family and dear friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a further time when it is safe for all to gather, both in Omaha NE and in Fairview MT.