Gary O. Gardner, 75, of Williamsport passed away Saturday, April 13, 2024 at home.
Born November 16, 1948 in Williamsport he was a son of the late Earl Ellis and Rosanna Nancy (Beck) Gardner.
Gary was a graduate of Montoursville High School and proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. He worked in construction and the parking authority for the city of Williamsport.
The Hiawatha, a symbol of local heritage and pride, had the honor of having Gary as a captain for 22 years. His leadership and expertise were vital to the vessel’s operations, and he will be remembered fondly by both crew and passengers for his enthusiasm to explore the Susquehanna River.
His love for hunting and fishing was more than a pastime; it was a reflection of his deep appreciation for nature and the simple pleasures of life. A man of many interests, Gary was deeply involved with the Loyalsock Antique Machinery Association, sharing his passion for antique cars and, most notably, John Deere Green Tractors. Above all else, Gary had a love for his family and any time spent with them.
Surviving is his daughter, Roxxanne E. Haynes of Northumberland; 3 grandchildren, Harold R. Haynes (Whitney) of Montoursville, Nynda – Marie Haynes of Williamsport, and Christopher L. Haynes (Shelby) of Ridley Park; four great-grandchildren, Braeden, Haylee, Emma and Everly; his companion of 12 years, Darlene L. Beach and her family; his siblings, Faye Wheeland, Wanda Gardner, Joan Dundore, Jacob Gardner, and Gene Gardner; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by his wife, Linda (Bohart) Gardner in 2009, and two siblings, Timothy Gardner and Virginia Gardner.
The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, April 18, at Sanders Mortuary, 821 Diamond Street, Williamsport. A funeral service to honor Gary’s life will be held 10 a.m. Friday April 19, at Sanders Mortuary. Burial with military honors will follow in Union Cemetery, Liberty.
Memorial donations in Gary’s name may be made to Loyalsock Antique Machinery Association, PO Box 391, Montoursville, PA 17754.
Online condolences may be made on Gary’s memorial page at http://www.SandersMortuary.com
