C. Dale Gardner, 91, of Unityville passed away January 1, 2026 at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville.
Born May 8, 1934 in Williamsport, he is the son of the late Roy Gardner and Bertha Mae (Rider) Gardner. Dale was a graduate of Hughesville High School class of 1952. Following graduation, he worked with his dad at Roy Gardner Auction Company. He was previously employed by PennDOT, Reggie Rails, and Bud Neidig. He also worked with his sons at Gardner Construction and was a lifelong farmer.
Dale enjoyed spending time with his family most, including camping, hunting, and fishing trips. Sporting events for children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were of utmost importance. He loved socializing, including breakfast at Gumpy’s and supper at (the old) Tin Cup or the Roost. At the Roost he liked wings, chicken cheesesteaks, and watching line dancing. He enjoyed attending all of the fundraisers at the Unityville and Lairdsville Volunteer Fire Halls and also local fairs and carnivals. He was a lifelong member of the Consolidated Sportsmen of Muncy Creek.
Surviving are five children, Darl (Doug) Smith of Hughesville, Duane (Kim) Gardner of Hughesville, Dan (Amy) Gardner of Hughesville, Dolly (Layne) Oden of Muncy, and Dana (Bobbi) Gardner of Unityville; twelve grandchildren, Jason Smith, Ashton Hackenberg, Denay Malone, Lynsey Dvorshock, Michael Gardner, Josh Gardner, Megan Whipple, Grady Oden, Rory Oden, Clynt Oden, Sarah Gardner and Royce Gardner; 22 great-grandchildren; and one sister, Frances Bigger.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, L. June Houseknecht; and brothers-in-law, Robert Houseknecht and Warren Bigger.
Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life to honor Dale on Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church Celebration Center at 602 South Market Street, Muncy, we encourage everyone to dress casually in remembrance of Dale.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in memory of C. Dale Gardner to Unityville Community Volunteer Fire Company (6187 State Route 42, Unityville, PA 17774) or Lairdsville Community Volunteer Fire Company (143 School Lane, Lairdsville, PA 17742).
The family is being assisted by Hughesville Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 5069 Route 220 Hwy, Hughesville. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at http://www.hughesvillefuneralhome.com.
