Margory Dahnke

With faith as her ever present guide, Margory Dahnke lived her life surrounded by those she loved. Margory’s social life revolved around her church and family, and she came to be affectionately known by many as, “Aunt Marge”. Outgoing, kind, and with her sweet demeanor, Margory lived by example and will be remembered for all she did. With lasting love and fond memories, she will be deeply missed.

By 1935, life was greatly defined by the trials of the Great Depression. Throughout these tumultuous times, Americans forged on with lasting hope. They reelected President Teddy Roosevelt to a second term while Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire danced their way into the hearts of many. Born on March 8, 1935 in the bustling city of Detroit, Michigan, Margory was the fourth of seven children born to her parents, Clarence and Helen (Goudzwaard) Dahnke. She joined her older siblings Bob, Peggy and Dick, and later welcomed younger siblings, Carole, Beverly and James.

Marge enjoyed a typical childhood of her generation. Raised in a family firm in their faith, Margory was a longtime member of the Dearborn Chapel. In her youth she enjoyed fun-filled times shared with family at her uncle’s cottage on Hubbard Lake. After graduating from Mumford High School, Marge found work at Federals Department Store. She later began working at J.C. Penney’s Department Store where she remained for many years. Marge enjoyed working in the office there, but when her mother became ill, and already near to retiring, she retired to help her sister care for their mother. She also enjoyed spending time during the summer at the Gull Lake Bible and Missionary Conference.

For the next seven years, Marge and her sister, Carole lovingly took care of their mother until her death in 2002. They remained living in their parent’s home for a time until they moved to another home. From there they moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan into Rest Haven Homes, along with their sister, Beverly.

Throughout her life, Marge enjoyed a great love for children. She had a special way of interacting with them all her own, and always brought candy to church meetings for them. Quite often they would seek her out afterwards for Smarties or Raisins. Marge easily showed children her love. Beginning as a substitute teacher, she taught Sunday school at her church in Dearborn for 54 years, and only stopped when she moved to Grand Rapids. Even so, Margory continued her love and interaction with little ones, and was dearly known at church simply as, "Aunt Marge". She also helped out at school bible clubs in the Grand Rapids area.

When Marge wasn’t working, she enjoyed reading books. Well into her later years, she read numerous Christian books, and stories about people. Puzzle books were also another favorite. She also filled her time watching Gaither videos, and loved the sounds their inspiring, Christian music. Margory was talented when it came to knitting. Through the years she made a number of beautiful pot holders and dishcloths for family, friends, and her church. While very outgoing and friendly, Margory had a welcoming spirit and could easily hold a conversation with nearly everyone. Just the same, she could also be very content at home and by herself. Much of Marge’s life was centered on her career, but especially her family and church. Once in Grand Rapids, she was always willing to go shopping when given the opportunity. Although the gift of organization may not have been Marge’s most promising strength, she seemed to always know where everything was.

Ever loving and kind, Margory filled the hearts of those who knew and loved her with unending joy. She had a special place in the hearts of many who will fondly remember her kindness, and sweet natured ways. Deeply loved, she will be sorely missed in the days to come.

Margory Dahnke, age 80, passed away very unexpectedly on Thursday, April 16, 2015. She was preceded in death by her brother, Bob, and by her sister, Peggy Maschke. Marge is survived by her sisters, Carole Dahnke, Beverly Somerville; brothers, Dick Dahnke, James (Barbara) Dahnke; and several nieces and nephews. Her funeral service will be held on Tuesday, April 21, 2015, 2:30 PM at Rest Haven Homes, 1424 Union NE where friends may visit with her family from 1:30 PM until the service. To read more about her life, to share a favorite memory or to sign Margory’s guestbook, please visit www.lifestorynet.com.