Richard Gardner

Richard leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife, Linda (Roberts) Gardner; two children, son, Ross Gardner, daughter, Leanne (Gardner) Putnam; son-in-law, Chris Putnam; two grandchildren, Sam and Emma Putnam; sister, Betsy (Gardner) Shipley, Randy Shipley, and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, Stanley Gardner and Ann (Hough) Gardner, and his Uncle Duane Gardner.

Richard graduated from Underwood, IA, High School in 1969 and went on to achieve a BS in History Political Science and Speech & Drama from Dakota Wesleyan University, Mitchell, SD, in 1973. In addition, he also earned his MS in Counseling from South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD, in 2005.

Richard enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, and making Diamond Eye Willow walking sticks. He was a member of the Hartford, SD Masonic Lodge and El Riad Shrine of Sioux Falls, SD.

Richard was a good listener as a School Counselor and Vocational Rehab Counselor. Rich loved his various jobs and worked well with his co-workers and supervisors. He was kind and generous with others, but frugal to a fault when it came to himself. Rich had undying love, encouragement and support for his children. He was steadfast in his convictions in topics ranging from food preferences to politics.

Rich will be remembered as a great man who provided successfully for his family while enjoying life to its fullest. After retiring, his dream of settling to the Black Hills became a reality. He loved cruising, exploring, and looking for diamond willow sticks to make into walking sticks, which he donated to the Orthopedic Rehab Center in Sioux Falls, SD.

Per Richard’s request, there will be no funeral service.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared below for the Gardner family.