Michael Farrel Gardner

Born in Battle Creek, Michigan on January 26th 1949, he is survived by his wife Deborra Reckmeyer Gardner; his son Matthew Gardner, wife Vicky Gardner, and two grandsons Grayson and Gavin Gardner; his stepdaughter Erika Hall, husband Brent Hall, and three grandchildren Adrian, Mina, and Grace Hall; his stepson Noah Landis, wife Joyce Landis, and two grandchildren Mason and Emma Landis; his sister Teresa Merrick and husband Dana Merrick; as well as dozens of cousins, nieces, and nephews. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Gardner and Maxine (Willacker) Gardner; his sister Mary Cummings; his brother Alan Gardner: and his granddaughter Breanna Trujillo (Hall).

Mike graduated from St. Philip Catholic High School in Battle Creek and attended Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan before entering the U.S. Army. He proudly served his country his entire adult life, beginning with his Army tenure as a military policeman and dog handler in both the United States and Korea. Upon completing his enlistment, he earned a BS in Forensic Chemistry and Police Science at Michigan State University. After graduation, he served as a criminal investigator for St John’s County, Florida before joining the Central Intelligence Agency, from which he retired after a long and successful career. Following his retirement, Mike continued to serve his country in multiple roles – including as President of the CIA’s Technical Services Retirees Association (of which he was very proud).

As a young man growing up in Battle Creek, Mike learned to play the guitar and made quite a name for himself playing all over the state supporting the Catholic Teens Encounter Christ retreats. He continued playing for weddings and other celebratory occasions, at clubs, and for work colleague events (including CIA Family Day) until well after he retired. Throughout his life, he also maintained close ties with his high school classmates in Michigan or wherever they had moved.

Mike loved life and everyone around him. He had a ready smile and never knew a stranger, often picking up a conversation with someone in line with him at a concert, in the grocery store, or in an elevator, etc.

He was a humorist and charming flirt to the very end, which made us all smile. He will be remembered as a loving husband, brother, uncle, and friend; as a devoted father, stepdad, and grandfather; and as a generous giver of himself, time, and gifts.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s or Cancer research.

Online condolences may be made at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com.

Peacock - Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service, Southport, North Carolina.