Charles W. Gardner

On Saturday, November 20th, Charles William Gardner passed away. He was born in Chanute, Kansas, the only child of Charles Hanes and Billie Maxine Gardner. He grew up in the Northern Illinois town of Zion where he attended Zion Benton Township High School. He received his Bachelor’s degree from Carthage College in Kenosha, WI, Master’s degree from the College of Racine, and a Certificate of Advanced Studies from the National College of Education in Evanston, IL.

Charlie, spent an entire career in education, starting out as a teacher in 1968 at East Elementary in Zion, IL. He married Vincene who was a teacher in the same school district. Charlie rose through the ranks ultimately serving as Principal at Beulah Park Elementary in Zion, Irving Elementary in Berwyn, IL, and Wayne Thomas Elementary in Highland Park, IL. Mr. Gardner was loved and respected by students, parents, faculty and staff alike. When he wasn’t in the classroom, he dabbled in real estate and was heavily involved in the Methodist Church, teaching Sunday school and serving on many committees.

In 2000, Charlie and Vincene retired to Trinity, TX, building a house on a bluff overlooking Lake Livingston. Charlie was a valued member in the Methodist church where he was a regular in the choir and would often pull a double, singing at the Presbyterian church as well if they were down a man. Recently, Charlie moved from Trinity into Houston and enjoyed more time with family and making new friends. Those who knew him well will recall his work ethic, love of writing notes and letters, reading books, and joking about all manner of things.

Charlie is survived by his two daughters; Kristine (Mark) Madorsky of Houston, TX, and Shelley Gardner of Arlington, VA. He is also survived by his two grandsons, Jacob and Nicholas Madorsky of Houston, TX. He is predeceased by his wife Vincene John Gardner.

In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation in honor of Charlie's dedication to education and his love of reading. (www.bushhoustonliteracy.org).

A private memorial service for the family will be held at Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church in Houston, TX, at a time to be determined.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.AdvantageHoustonFunerals.com for the GARDNER family.