Dona Darlene Gartner

Dona Darlene Gartner, 89, Topeka, Kansas, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2022, at home. She was known to most people as Darlene. Darlene was born in Sharon Springs, Kansas to William and Alberta Blackwell on June 19, 1933. She married John Gartner on April 23, 1955, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. John preceded her in death on April 15, 2022. John and Darlene lived in San Francisco and Colorado before settling in Topeka in 1974. The move back to Kansas was to be close to family again, as well as Darlene opening Dona’s Gift Box in Gage Center. She operated the business from 1974 through 1987. After closing her store, Darlene was able to spend her time sewing and crafting, which she loved. If she was awake, she had something in her hands working on it. She made countless beautiful quilts, faberge style eggs, crochet, knitting, sewing, cross stitching, embroidery, needle point…. you name it, she could do it and do it well. John and Darlene missed their 67th Anniversary by eight days. They were devoted to each other. Darlene was always very proud of her daughters, Darla Steinlage (Keith), Pam Hook (Bill), and Theresa Dunham (Neil), all of Topeka. She dearly loved her six grandchildren, Kendal Steinlage, Carly Steinlage Yingling, Deon Hook, Cole, Kyle and Taylor Dunham. When the grandkids were younger, she loved going to their sporting and school events. Darlene also had five great grandchildren. Darlene was one of 11 children. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Alberta Blackwell, and nine of her siblings, Danny Blackwell, Billie Blackwell, Bobbie Blackwell, Connie Burke, Ronnie Blackwell, Terry Blackwell, Glea Ashley, Ricky Blackwell, Cindy Hope, and grandson, Taylor Dunham. Her sister, Glenda Hase lives in Rossville. Darlene received loving care by Interim Hospice Care. It was Darlene’s wish that there be no funeral service. The family will gather at a later date for burial. Inurnment will be at Prairie Home Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Interim HealthCare of Topeka, 1251 SW Arrowhead Rd Suite 103, Topeka, KS 66604. Condolences may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com

Dona Darlene Gartner

June 19, 1933 - August 3, 2022