I first met Wilson at a dahlia tuber sale in 1998.   For those of us who knew Wilson,  there were two topics of conversation that he was fond of---dahlias and his faith.  I consider him to have been my mentor and friend.  Over the years we spent a lot of time together enjoying our joint love of growing and showing dahlias.  I greatly benefitted from his tremendous dahlia knowledge, and interest in sharing and patience in explaining,  the ins and outs of dahlia growing.   Wilson grew superb blooms.  His favorite dahlia was a beautiful large white flower called Walter Hardisty.  Dikka enjoyed Wilson’s wry sense of humor whenever they chatted at shows, potlucks or various dahlia events, and laughed every time he called her “the Boss” at the beginning of a phone conversation.  She often served as clerk at shows in the group where he was judging, and she always admired his ability to explain what was special about the blooms he designated as winners.    Wilson will be greatly missed.  We are sorry that we will not be able to attend his visitation and funeral today.   Keith and Dikka Berven

I met Wilson about 1966, age 13, while my family was attending Five Points Community Church.  “Hello” he said, and I looked up at this very tall man with his big hand reaching to shake mine little hand.  And with his big smile, he took my hand and I felt his warm, welcoming spirit comfort me.  When I got older, I joined the choir and sat next to Wilson, who helped me sing along.  Great fun!  I worked for a while at Acorn Tool & Die, as an apprentice.  Wilson also asked me to help him sheer sheep and even kill chickens.  LOL.  He was my teacher, shepherd & counselor guiding me in the Word of God: helping me grow in my Christian life.  I am so blessed to have had Wilson in my life!!        Bro Mike

I remember the kind soul at my parents church, talking to my sister and I while at a funeral for one of the well known lady.  He was soft spoken and reverent.  We know that he is with our Lord in heaven.  Rest easy, all is well.

I met Wilson Garner in 2003 when I became a member of the Auburn Hills Historical Society. I served along side Wilson for many years as officers of the Historical Society while learning much about the history of Auburn Hills from him. I recall him showing me his dahlia garden and I attended his cheviot sheep sheering. Wilson was a very warm and welcoming gentleman, he will be dearly missed. I am so glad that I had the opportunity to know him.

I have known Wilson since the mid 59s where he and Norma were faithful members of Five Points Community Church.  After Norma's passing and he remarried Ginny they continue their faithfulness to our church in many ways.  Wilson was a man of his word.  A a member of the Auburn Hills Historical Society; he contributed so much and he had so much knowledge about the area.  He will be missed.

It was an honor to know this amazing man. Wilson taught me a lot. He was like a father to me for a few years after my real father died. I’ll never forget the times we shared. In the pasture… with the sheep. Shoveling manure or working on the barn. I will forever be grateful for time I spent with him. Rest easy young man. -Doug

As a young boy Mr. Garner and his wife Norma showed great warmth and kindness to me.  I not only stood in awe of his size but his tenderness and humble spirit.  I grew very fond of the Garner family as they became a great influence on my early life and as I matured into adulthood (now old age).   Mr. Garner was a benchmark of great character, honor and commitment to his lord and savior Jesus Christ.  I had the utmost respect for his council as it was always constructive, straightforward and gentle in delivery.  He had an engaging sense of humor that put you at ease and made your feel welcome.  He was a mentor, friend and example and I thank God for the pleasure of knowing him.  Brad Duggan

OBITUARY

Wilson Lewis Garner

5 October, 1926 – 25 November, 2021

Pixley Funeral Home

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