Donald Gardner Obituary

Donald G. 'Gary' Gardner, 78, of Washington Township, passed away on Sunday, March 2, 2025, in AHN-Forbes Hospital, Monroeville. Born May 2, 1946, in New Kensington, he was the son of the late Donald L. Gardner and Martha E. (Catchpole) Gardner Miller. Gary attended Apollo Ridge High School, and worked as a technician for Westinghouse/Emerson Process Control. He enjoyed woodworking, cooking, baking, candy making, and was known for his baklava. He most enjoyed spending time with his family. Gary's memberships included Apollo Free Methodist Church, Apollo Hose Company No. 2, Fort Hand Rifle Club, Blazing Blades Scrollers of Western Pennsylvania, and Cornerstone Bowling League. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepfather, Howard B. Miller; and his brother, Bruce Miller. Gary is survived by his wife of 56 years, Vivian E. (Johnson) Gardner; daughter, Gayle G. (Donn) Nelson; grandchildren, R.J., Hailey, and Michael; siblings, Debbie (Lonny) Amendolea, Bernie (Marylin) Miller, Barb (Dave) Wilmot, and Carla Kunkle; and many nieces and nephews. Friends and family will be welcome from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, March 6, 2025, in the CURRAN-SHAFFER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, INC., 100 Owens View Ave., Apollo, PA. Services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, March 7, 2025, in the funeral home, with Pastor Paul Eckenrode, officiating. Private entombment at Greenwood Memorial Park, Lower Burrell. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Gary's memory to Apollo Hose Company No. 2, 325 N. 4th St., Apollo, PA 15613. To send an online condolence to the family, please visit www.curranfuneralhome.com.