Richard W. Gardner
August 18, 2013
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Service Details
Richard W. Gardner passed away on Sunday, August 18, 2013 at the age of 75 from complications of Pulmonary Fibrosis. As per his wishes, there will be no services.
Richard was born in 1938 in Fairfield, IA to parents Sue and Slim Gardner. He graduated from Fairfield High School and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics from Parsons College in Fairfield. Richard worked 26 years for IBM as a Systems Engineer and then 4 years with Principal Financial in systems technical support.
Richard enjoyed listening to and playing music. He was accomplished on the trumpet and piano. While in college, he earned money with his band, The Rhythm Kings, and later played with The Don Hoy Orchestra. He also enjoyed traveling, landscaping and fitness.
Richard was a 45-year resident of the Des Moines area spending his last 29 years in Urbandale.
He is survived by his loving wife, Elaine of Urbandale; three sons: David Gardner (Deb) of Georgetown, TX and grandchildren, Lindsey and Matt; Tim Gardner (Nancy) of Johnston and grandchildren, Erin and Ben; Chris Gardner (Bev) of Minneapolis; daughter, Becky Edwards of Maricopa, AZ and grandchildren, Emily, Evan, Megan, Grayson and Curtis; stepson, Marc Ryan (Sarah) of Boulder, CO; sister, Julie Murawski (Bob); and nephew, Tyler of Brunswick, OH.
One of Richard’s favorite charities was the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, 5452 NE 22nd Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50313 or www.arl-iowa.org, where contributions may be made in his name. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Larry Manning
08/31/2013
Condolences to the Richard Gardner family. I grew up in Fairfield along with Dick. I was the drummer in his band, "The Rhythm Kings" May you rest in peace.
Dee Willemsen
08/30/2013
I would like to express my symapthy to the Gardner family. I enjoyed working and socializing with Dick while we were both at IBM. May you find comfort in all the wonderful memories that you hold in your heart.
Dan Ryan
08/26/2013
My brother and I worked with Dick over 50 years ago at Lutz/Linn's Super Valu. He was a great guy then, and I'm sure he got even better with age. Always the card, he used to feign tripping while coming out of the office, which was a glass surrounded, one step up affair at the front of the store, which was common at the time. He was really good at it, and always good for a laugh. One night, at closing time, he tried it with the cash drawer, destined for the safe, in his hands. Well, a few coins may have rolled as far as the safe, but most of them and all of the bills were strewn all over the front end. We were all still laughing as we locked up a half hour later.
This saddens me deeply, because i have been looking for him for a long time. I've found Vietnam buddies all over the country, but i couldn't find Dick, right here in Des Moines. Our sympathy from our family to your family.
Phil Bale
08/25/2013
Sorry to hear about your dad. We were just talking about him last nite. When we were married in '86, we stashed our car in his driveway so it wouldn't get "decorated". He was a very nice man and I always enjoyed talking with him.
Moe & Charlotte Nielsen
08/21/2013
We were so shocked to hear about Dick. We haven't seen you for a long time, so kind of lost track of the two of you. Our sincere sympathy to you and your family.
Sam & Leona Matiello
08/20/2013
We are very sorry to hear about Richard's passing. We have only known both of you for a short time in Arizona but felt a special connection and valued your friendship. Richard was a very special guy and we enjoyed hearing all the computer stories when we were together. We will miss your friendship very much. May God bless.
Sam & Leona
Wendy Knutson
08/20/2013
Elaine, I was so sorry to hear about Dick's passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Patty Wagner
08/19/2013
Elaine and the Gardner family,
We were shocked and saddened to hear that Dick passed away yesterday. We will be keeping you in our thoughts in the coming days and weeks.
Patty & Bruce
Kandra Dickerson
08/19/2013
Elaine, Julie & Bob,
So sorry to hear of Dick's passing. You are in John & my thoughts and prayers during this sorrowful time.
Kandra
Nancy Harris
08/19/2013
To Elaine and all the Gardners:
We are so sorry about your loss
Dick was one classy guy, and so intelligent. He helped me ao muxh during my days at Blue Cross when he was our IBM support man. I was so happy when you and he married, Elaine. Your friendship has been important to me for such a long time. Many thanks.
Our love and prayers,
Nancy and Brad
The Benda Family
08/19/2013
Elaine and family,
We were very saddened to hear of Dick's passing. He was always good for a laugh and a friendly smile. Dick will be missed. Please know that the entire Gardner family is in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.