Fredrick James Gardner was born in Boulder, Colorado on May 22, 1936.
From an early age he dreamed of flying airplanes. His dream became reality on February 4, 1958 upon completing his first solo flight. He graduated from CU and was commissioned as a second Lieutenant in the US Air Force Reserve. From 1959-1966 flew C-130 Transports on global humanitarian and surveillance missions. From 1966-1996 he flew for Continental Airlines.
Fred married Jo Anne in 1958 and has three sons, five grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.
He loved God, his family, flying, his mountain cabin, music, working on cars and airplanes, and helping those in need.