Obituary for Diane Ellen Gartner
Diane Ellen Gartner (nee Brooks) of Owings Mills passed away on July 2nd, at the age of 73 following a hard fought battle with metastatic breast cancer. She is survived by her husband and soulmate of 51 years, Howard, and her loving children, Beth (significant other Dennis Kloster) and Todd (fiancee’ Michelle Larkins). Diane is also survived by her sister, Sharon (the late Sig) Alman with whom she had a special bond, her brother-in-law and sister-in-law Randy and Judy Gartner, many other loving family members and dear friends. She was predeceased by her parents, Harry and Blanche Brooks.
Born and raised in Baltimore, Diane was a graduate of Forest Park HS and then University of Maryland College Park. She had a varied career, working as an assistant for Congressman Clarence Long, teaching elementary, then preschool for 18 years, and finally as a medical assistant for several physician practices for another 18 years.
In 2007, when she was originally diagnosed with breast cancer, which she proudly overcame following surgeries, chemo and radiation treatments, she hardly missed a beat, continuing her work and routine. She was so grateful for her outcome that, in retirement, she chose to give back by volunteering at the Northwest Hospital Infusion Center and Hopewell Cancer Support. When her cancer returned in November, 2020, she remained positive and active until the end.
Beside her volunteer work, Diane found time for weekly canasta and mahjong games with friends and really loved her tennis, pickleball and more recently golf play, both in town and at their Florida vacation home. However, what was most important was quality time with family and friends. A great cook and baker, she enjoyed hosting holiday and social gatherings. She made every effort to be present and involved in activities of her children and other family members.
Once Beth and Todd were grown, she and Howard spent quality time together traveling to destinations such as Israel, Peru, Africa and China.
A loving wife, mom, daughter and sister, a hard worker, dedicated volunteer, caring, committed friend, Diane was always there for everyone, with support, encouragement and warmth. Her passing creates a huge void for all whose lives she touched.
Services at Sol Levinson's Chapel, 8900 Reisterstown Road, Pikesville, MD 21208 on Monday, July 4th, 2022 at 9:30 am. Due to Covid concerns, the family will not be receiving guests prior to the funeral service, and masks are required. Interment Mikro Kodesh Beth Israel Cemetery. Please omit flowers. Contributions in her memory may be sent to HopeWell Cancer Support, P.O. Box 755, Brooklandville, MD 21022 or Beth Israel Congregation, 3706 Crondall Lane, Owings Mills, MD 21117.
Shiva will be held at 2 Spruce Court, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Days and times are Monday following interment through 9 pm, with services at 7 pm; Tuesday services at 9 am, and receiving 1-4:30 pm and 6 to 9 pm, with evening services at 7 pm.
Born and raised in Baltimore, Diane was a graduate of Forest Park HS and then University of Maryland College Park. She had a varied career, working as an assistant for Congressman Clarence Long, teaching elementary, then preschool for 18 years, and finally as a medical assistant for several physician practices for another 18 years.
In 2007, when she was originally diagnosed with breast cancer, which she proudly overcame following surgeries, chemo and radiation treatments, she hardly missed a beat, continuing her work and routine. She was so grateful for her outcome that, in retirement, she chose to give back by volunteering at the Northwest Hospital Infusion Center and Hopewell Cancer Support. When her cancer returned in November, 2020, she remained positive and active until the end.
Beside her volunteer work, Diane found time for weekly canasta and mahjong games with friends and really loved her tennis, pickleball and more recently golf play, both in town and at their Florida vacation home. However, what was most important was quality time with family and friends. A great cook and baker, she enjoyed hosting holiday and social gatherings. She made every effort to be present and involved in activities of her children and other family members.
Once Beth and Todd were grown, she and Howard spent quality time together traveling to destinations such as Israel, Peru, Africa and China.
A loving wife, mom, daughter and sister, a hard worker, dedicated volunteer, caring, committed friend, Diane was always there for everyone, with support, encouragement and warmth. Her passing creates a huge void for all whose lives she touched.
Services at Sol Levinson's Chapel, 8900 Reisterstown Road, Pikesville, MD 21208 on Monday, July 4th, 2022 at 9:30 am. Due to Covid concerns, the family will not be receiving guests prior to the funeral service, and masks are required. Interment Mikro Kodesh Beth Israel Cemetery. Please omit flowers. Contributions in her memory may be sent to HopeWell Cancer Support, P.O. Box 755, Brooklandville, MD 21022 or Beth Israel Congregation, 3706 Crondall Lane, Owings Mills, MD 21117.
Shiva will be held at 2 Spruce Court, Owings Mills, MD 21117. Days and times are Monday following interment through 9 pm, with services at 7 pm; Tuesday services at 9 am, and receiving 1-4:30 pm and 6 to 9 pm, with evening services at 7 pm.