Mona Mae Garber

Mona (Rockwood) Garber passed away peacefully on the morning of June 17, 2025. She was born on October 18,1926 to Olive and John Rockwood in Adrian, Michigan. She graduated from Scott High School in Toledo before matriculating to Toledo University where she studied accounting, while being an active member of the Alpha Omicron Pi sorority and formidable player on the school’s ping pong team.

She met the love of her life, Charles “Charlie” Garber early in childhood; they were committed to each other despite the challenges that World War II presented; they subsequently married in 1946. Mona and Charlie were the proud parents of four children: Jill (Garber) Harrison, Corey Garber, Kim (Garber) Bell, and Clint Garber.

Mona had a voracious appetite for life: she loved travelling, reading, movies, fashion, and food. Most of all, she adored her family and was proud to serve as a staunch supporter to many members of her extended family. She understood the importance of staying active, both mentally and physically, which likely contributed to her longevity. She would consistently lead the pack on family trips (near and far) and was known for her ability to “refuel.” Mona was a talented storyteller and passed down many invaluable lessons to anyone who was privileged enough to listen.

Aside from her time spent living life to its fullest, she also was instrumental in helping to grow her family’s many business ventures. Tenacious in spirit, Mona was a dedicated employee at Macy’s in Monterey, CA for many years (well into her 80’s).

She is preceded in death by her husband, Charlie; her parents; her sons, Corey and Clint; and her sister, Gloria (Rockwood) Lee. She is survived by her daughters; her daughter-in-law, Kathy Garber; daughter-in-law, Laura Loop; 10 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

Mona was the consummate social butterfly and will be sorely missed by many. A private remembrance service will be held at a date to yet be determined.

The family wishes to extend its gratitude to Mona’s caretakers in her final days at Otterbein Sunset Village in Sylvania and Ashanti Hospice (Toledo), who ensured she was as comfortable as possible before her passing.

In lieu of flowers, the family would welcome donations to Otterbein Sunset Village or Ashanti Hospice.