Walter Charles Gardner, age 88, of Winter Park, FL, entered eternal life on May 15, 2018. He was born on December 27, 1929 in Muncie, Kansas the fourth son of Jess Frederick and Julia Minna (Henry) Gardner and one of eight boys. The family later moved to Shawnee, KS where Walter finished 8th grade and attended St. Joe’s High School. Walter graduated from St. Benedict’s College in Atchison, KS. Immediately upon graduation he was sworn into the Air Force and served as a pilot from 1949-1954. While stationed at Forbes Air Force Base in Topeka, KS, he married Eileen Marie (Wenzl) on May 8, 1954. Walter and Eileen had just celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary.
Following his service, Walter worked for New York Life Insurance Company and made the Million Dollar Round Table his first year. After several years in the insurance industry, Walter decided to pursue a career in Construction. The family moved from Kansas to Winter Park, Florida in 1968. Walt had a creative ability that he was able to use in his profession as a general contractor and construction manager. His many years of experience ultimately led him to become an Owner’s Representative for the Diocese of Orlando, helping to oversee church construction projects in Central Florida.
Walter was a true servant of his Lord and passionately shared his faith with family and friends. He is survived by his beloved wife Eileen; children Anne Graham, Michael and Mary; brothers James, Robert, Leo and Joe, 9 grandchildren and two great grandsons. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Henry, John, and Fred, and sons Mark, Steven and Terry.
A Funeral Mass with reception to follow will be held on Monday, May 21st at 1:00 p.m. at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, Winter Park, FL. Arrangements are being handled by Baldwin-Fairchild Winter Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Margaret Mary Haitian Mission.
