Richard F. "Dick" Gardner , age 75 of Elwood, passed away on Friday, July 15, 2022 at Yorktown Manor in Yorktown following an extended illness.   He was born October 21, 1946 in Elwood, the son of Thomas A. and Mary E. (Hanchier) Gardner.  Dick retired from Red Gold in Elwood after 20 years where he worked in various departments and last in the shipping and loading division.  He also formerly worked at Ex-Cello Corporation in Elwood for 15 years until they closed.  Dick proudly served his country in the U.S. Marines Corp. during the Vietnam War and later served in the Indiana National Guard for 19 years through the Elwood Armory.  He married Elizabeth "Liz" Jones on January 29, 1968 and they shared over 49 years of marriage together before her passing in 2017.  Dick formerly enjoyed working on cars and spending time on his C-B radio under the handle, "Night Flyer".  In recent years, Dick enjoyed a simple life and especially treasured time spent with his family.  His presence will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Dick's family includes 4 children, Tom (wife Brenda) Gardner of Florida, Kim Gardner of Knox, John (wife Sarah) Gardner of Yorktown, and Shawn (wife Chrisy) Gardner of Elwood; 3 grandchildren Christine (Jack) Dunlow, Callie Montgomerly, and Lauraly Montgomery; and several nieces and nephews.  Dick was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Elizabeth "Liz" Gardner, and 6 siblings; Tom Gardner; Vera McCormick, Marilyn Shaffer, Jerry Gardner, Jim Gardner, and Joyce Roller.

Dick's wishes were to be cremated.  A memorial service will take place at a later date when all his family can be present.  Burial of his ashes took place on his birthday, October 21, 2022 in Sunset Memorial Park in Elwood.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.copherfeslermay.com.