Obituary of Herbert Townsend Gardner, Jr.

Herbert Townsend Gardner JR. was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He passed through the pearly gates of Heaven on November 9th, 2023 at age 74 after a long battle with liver disease caused by Agent Orange which he was exposed to while overseas in the Vietnam War.

He was born to Herbert and Jeanette Gardner on September 3rd, 1949. Herb joined the United States Navy right after graduating from Whitmer High School in 1968 and while on leave, met the love of his life and wife of 50yrs, Kathleen (Schnipke) Gardner. Herb was also a graduate of the University of Toledo. Together, they were blessed with 3 children: Jeanette (Brian) Houghteling; Jennifer DeGrie; and Herbert (Tanya) Gardner III. They were also blessed with nine grandchildren, nine step grandchildren, and two great grandsons. Herb was preceded in death by his parents and one sister. He is survived by five siblings.

After serving his country with the United States Navy, Herb spent 36yrs working for Jeep Willys in Toledo, Oh. After retirement, Herb enjoyed working armed security for ADA Security for over 10yrs before taking full retirement and moving to Venice, FL. Herb loved sports and his favorite teams were Notre Dame, Detroit Lions, Detroit Redwings, and NASCAR. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, spending time with his family and grandchildren. In his retirement, he spent time playing bocce, golf, poker, bingo, and was active in the VA community. He enjoyed letting loose with his retirement community and friends who were more like extended family.

In lieu of funeral services, a private memorial will be held at Herb’s retirement community.