Joseph Edwin Gardner

Joseph E. Gardner, 86, of Bartonville passed away Tuesday, August 2, 2016, at his home, surrounded by his family. Born April 10, 1930, in Bartonville to Joseph and Dorothy (Adams) Gardner, he married the former Mary Lou Woods on November 25, 1950, and they enjoyed 65 years of marriage together. Surviving are his wife, Mary Lou Gardner of Bartonville; children, Garry (Linda) Gardner of Princeville and Nancy (Tom Powers) Melton of Peoria; 5 grandchildren, Garry Gardner Jr., Tonya Gigous, Andy Melton, Lucinda Elliott and Tiffany Gazza; 8 great-grandchildren, Tyler, Skyler, Kaitlyn, Graham, Chloe, Caleb, Tessa and Carson; and his niece, Susie Schlink. He was preceded in death by his son, Joseph E. Gardner Jr.; 2 brothers; and 2 sisters. Joe was a 65-year member of the UA Local #669 Sprinkler Fitters union and a past member of the Executive Board. He was very committed to and passionate about his work. Joe was a kind and caring man who helped anyone who needed it. He will be remembered for loving his family and working hard to provide a good life for them, making sure all needs were met. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, August 5, 2016, at Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel, with the Rev. Jack Thompson officiating. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until the time of service at the chapel. Burial will follow at Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. Memorials are suggested to Autism Speaks or the Arthritis Foundation.