Audrey J. LaChance
ESCANABA — Audrey J. LaChance, age 89, of Escanaba, passed away Thursday morning, February 2, 2023 at her home surrounded by family. She was born on February 4, 1933 in Escanaba, the daughter of Iver and Bertha (Wilson) Buckland. Audrey was raised and attended school in Escanaba where she was a 1951 graduate of Escanaba High School. The former Audrey Buckland married Raymond Gardner in 1959 and he preceded her in death in 1965. In 1968, she married Paul E. LaChance, Sr. and he preceded her in death in 2020. Audrey began her working career with Woolworth’s in downtown Escanaba and also when the company relocated to the Delta Plaza Mall as their head bookkeeper until her retirement in 1996. Audrey loved crocheting and sold many of her talented afghans at the Swedish Pantry in Escanaba. She was an avid golfer and was a member of the Highland Golf Club. For many years, Audrey wintered in Florida and enjoyed her time spent with her companion, Robert Ward.
Audrey is survived by her companion, Robert Ward of Escanaba; children, Bonnie (Steve) Dennoceno of Hardwood, Mich., Greg Gardner (Diane Jensen) of Escanaba, and Paul (Jennifer) LaChance of Escanaba; six grandchildren, Stephanie, Corey, Melissa, Ashley, Hunter, Bon; five great-grandchildren, Ava, Eli, Abby, Carson, and Ada; sister, LaVerne McGery of Escanaba; brothers, Charles Buckland of Escanaba, David Buckland of Escanaba, and John Buckland of Gladstone; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents and husbands, Audrey was preceded in death by siblings, Jim Buckland, Carol Marcum, and Betty Pettersen; and grandson, Jason Dennoceno.
Private family funeral services were held. Burial will take place in Holy Cross Cemetery in Escanaba. The family would like to extend a special thank you to OSF Hospice, especially Carrie, for their compassion and care given to Audrey. The Anderson Funeral Homes are assisting the family and online remembrances can be shared at www.andersonfuneralhomes.net.