Marilyn Yvonne Gardner

In 1940 the Krafka family moved to Pomona where she ultimately graduated from Pomona High School. She spent the balance of her life as a resident of Pomona or Upland.

Marilyn was predeceased by her first husband Billy L. Metcalf, a son Blaine A. Metcalf and a sister Kathleen Wright. She is survived by husband Paul R. Gardner; sons Brian P. Metcalf (Kathy) and Todd L. Metcalf (Dawn); brothers James and Frank Krafka; sisters Corrine Evans and Ginger Wright; stepdaughter Lauren Larkin and stepson Matthew P. Gardner. Her grandchildren include Julian, Kyle, Kelly and Soleil Metcalf; Ramon, Zachary and Erica Larkin; and Brianna and Sarah Gardner. Kiara Larkin is the only great grand- daughter. Space does not permit an adequate listing of many nieces and nephews.

After her three young sons reached school age Marilyn was determined to complete her education. Attending night school, she graduated from Mt. San Antonio College in 1967 as one of only two in her class with Academic Distinction. From there she went to Cal State Fullerton where she received her BA, also graduating with honors. She went on to acquire her teaching credential and began her teaching career at Chaffey High School in Ontario.

She left teaching in 1978 and formed a partnership with a friend, Louise Hoover, to open a kitchen and bath showroom called The Fixture Shop in Montclair. After the death of Louise the company was incorporated as the Metcalf Company, whose successor organization still exists under the leadership of her son Brian. The original Fixture Shop has been sold to others. Marilyn left active management of the Metcalf Company on the death of her husband Bill in 1985.

She returned to teaching in 1987 at Upland High School where she taught English until her retirement in 1997. Marilyn was truly passionate about teaching and put her heart and soul into her students' success.

As a young women in the Pomona years, Marilyn was active in community affairs, including a term as President of the Pomona Junior Women's Club and strong participation in the United Way. She was also a long-time member of Red Hill Country Club.

Marilyn, although strong-willed, had an engaging personality and was very family-oriented. She was an avid reader and had a life-long interest in learning, selflessly teaching and mentoring others. Her integrity and sense of values were impeccable. She had a great interest in history and world travel. Over the years her itinerary included Europe, the Eastern Mediterranean, the Middle East, Africa, and China. On one trip in 1997 she circumnavigated the globe.

Marilyn was a wise vibrant wonderful person, friend, mother and wife. She will be truly missed by all who knew her, most especially by those who loved her.

Memorial service June 26, 11 am at Stone Funeral Home, 355 E. Ninth St., Upland. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to City of Hope, 1500 E. Duarte Rd, Duarte, CA 91010 or to the charity of your choice. Stone Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.