Darcey Jean McGowan

BESSEMER, Mich. - Darcey Jean McGowan, 64, of Bessemer, died unexpectedly at home on Monday, May 1, 2017.

Darcey was born on Sept. 17, 1952, in Bessemer, the daughter of Arne Salonen and the late Grace Salonen (Olsen).

Darcey graduated in 1970 from A.D. Johnston High School in Bessemer. She then went on to Gogebic Community College in Ironwood and then University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, graduating in 1975 with a bachelor degree in special education. She went on to teach the deaf and hard of hearing in Superior, Wis. She taught many students throughout the years, ranging from preschool all the way to high school. She loved each and every one of her students and made many friends. She retired in 2002, when she became disabled. She and her daughter, Christine, and partner, Doyle, moved back to Bessemer at that time.

She married Doyle McGowan Jan. 17, 1985, in Duluth, Minn. Darcey and Doyle had 32 wonderful years together.

She loved the Beatles, her dog, Buddy, and her granddaughter. In her younger years in Superior she loved to dance, bowl, curl and go to "AAT" with co-workers and friends.

Darcey is survived by her partner, Doyle, of Bessemer; her daughter, Christine (Robert) Fresonke; granddaughter, Grace Fresonke, of Bessemer; her father, Arne Salonen, of Bessemer; her dog, Buddy; and many cousins, aunts and other relatives and friends.

In addition to her mother, Grace Salonen, she was preceded in death by daughter, Grace McGowan; her grandparents; and two dogs, Foxy and Cindy.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 20, at Sharon Lutheran Church in Bessemer, with Rev. Bill Jacobson officiating. Darcey's family will receive relatives and friends one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. A luncheon will follow in the fellowship hall.

Range Funeral Service and Crematory, Frick-Zielinski Funeral Home of Bessemer is assisting the family with arrangements. To send online condolences, visit rangefuneralservices.com.