Dannie McKenzie was born and brought up in Texas. In 1942, she and her husband moved to Charleston, intending to stay for two weeks. Charlestonians used to say that if one drank enough Goose Creek water, one would remain here, evidently it proved true, in their case.
Mac, as many of her friend call her, became interested in bowling and was a charter member of the local association, becoming its president from 1955 to 1956 and again from 1959 to 1962. From 1962 to 1968 she served on the board as a director. In 1981 she was elected a Life Member of the Charleston WBA.
In 1961, Dannie was elected First Vice President of the newly formed South Carolina WBA. When asked if she would accept, she replied “Only if Val Rossetti, the President, promises not to get pregnant.” Val not only became pregnant, in 1967 she moved to the west coast. Dannie assumed the presidency, serving until 1969, and was a director until 1971. She was made a Life Member in 1981.
Mrs. McKenzie also worked with junior bowling, serving on the South Carolina Junior Board as SCWBA Representative for two years and as recording secretary locally.
She has bowled in five WIBC Tournaments and was a delegate to WIBC three years. Dannie has missed only three or four state tournaments since 1961. She is currently bowling in three leagues each week. Her highest series was a 599, high game a 256. When she heard about WIBC’s oldest member being 102 years of age, she remarked that she guessed she’d “hang in there” for a few more years.
Dannie and her husband “T.A.” are strong supporters of the Senior Program. The S.C. Senior Tournament coincides with their wedding anniversary, so on several occasions, they have celebrated by bowling in the tournament. Next December, they will have their 54th Anniversary, possibly at the Senior event.
The McKenzies have one daughter, two grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Dannie retired from nursing in 1978 after 50 years. Her hobbies are gardening, fishing and needlework. She is interested in people and is always on hand whenever help is needed.
Dannie has truly shown the “pioneering” spirit in her pursuit of bowling. She “ploughed” in and never hesitated to take on any job asked of her.
Many organizations list among their assets, the properties and goods they have been able to obtain, but the greatest assets the South Carolina WBA can have are members of the caliber of Dannie McKenzie. We welcome Dannie into the membership of the SCWBA Hall of Fame.
