Monica M. Gardner, 59, of Stanton passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, January 03, 2011.

Monica was born on March 22, 1951 in Ionia to Lewis and Margaret (Ames) Reed. She was an RN at the Ionia County Memorial Hospital and the Dept. of Corrections in Ionia. She enjoyed cross country skiing, hiking, bird watching, sewing, and hunting; including traditional long bow and rifle shooting. She was full of joy and had a great sense of adventure, determination, and humor.

Monica is survived by her lifetime companion and hunting buddy, Ray Gleason; her children, Jason Gardner of Orleans, Jack Gardner of Ionia, Laurie Brooks of Saranac, Ryan Gleason of Ionia, Daniel Gleason of Ionia, and Anne Russell of Oregon; one grandson Jack Gardner III; father Lewis Reed; brother Mike Reed; five nephews; and one niece. She was preceded in death by her mother and brothers, Lewis Jr. and Doug Reed.

A celebration of Monica’s life will be held 2pm Thursday, January 6, 2011 at the Barden Funeral Home in Stanton. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service. Pastors Aaron Reed and John Prominski will officiate. Memorial contributions may be made to Resurrection Life Church of Ionia, envelopes will be available at the funeral home.