Michael Francis Gardner

Michael Francis Gardner, 65 of Vernon, beloved husband of Mary Boyle Gardner, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2016 at Hartford Hospital after a long term illness with family by his side. Michael was born on August 20, 1951 in Manchester, CT to Albert and Josephine G. Desimone Gardner previously residing in Manchester, CT before settling in Enfield, CT. He graduated and attended Enfield High School. He married Mary and they made their home in Vernon, CT. He was a devoted husband and father who cherished time spent with family. In addition to raising their children, he maintained his career in Sales and Marketing, employed by Rogers Corporation retiring in 2009. Michael had a great sense of humor and a clever response. He always enjoyed a spirited debate. Michael was a very generous man, always helping his family members and giving selflessly. He was an avid golfer for much of his life and enjoyed watching sports, including baseball and football, a lifelong New York Yankees and Giants fan. He was active in the Vernon Little League, coaching teams and was always present at games for his children and grandchildren. He loved to cook and celebrate holidays, always a gracious host, making sure everyone had their favorite foods.

In addition to his wife, he is survived and will be dearly missed by his mother, Josephine G. Gardner of Tolland, CT, son and grandson, Kevin and Justin Gardner of Manchester, CT, daughter, Jennifer Ambrose and her husband James Ambrose, granddaughters, Janae and Savannah Ambrose and grandson, Noah Ambrose of New York, NY, brother Daniel Gardner and his family of Bolton, CT; sister Linda Whitcomb and her family of Manchester, CT, brother Thomas Gardner of Enfield, CT and several special nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Funeral services will begin Friday, August 26, 2016 at 12:00 PM for visitation followed by a Funeral service at 01:00 PM at Newkirk & Whitney Funeral Home, 318 Burnside Ave. East Hartford, CT. Burial will follow in Valley Falls Cemetery in Vernon, CT. There will be a reception following the burial.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations in his memory may also be made to: Diabetes Foundation and American Heart Association.

For directions or online tributes, please visit www.newkirkandwhitney.com