James F. Gartner

James F. Gartner, 79, of Preston, died Friday, May 2, 2014, at his home.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 7, at St. Columban Catholic Church in Preston, with the Rev. Patrick Arens officiating. Burial will be at a later date in the State Veteran's Cemetery in Preston.

James Gartner was born Nov. 25, 1934, in Rochester, the son of Frank and Ella (Scanlon) Gartner. He graduated from Preston High School in 1953. On Feb. 2, 1956, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in Germany until his discharge on Jan. 17, 1958. James worked various jobs in the Preston area following his discharge. In 1964, he owned his own milk hauling business, and on Aug. 29, of that same year, he married Viola Kellner at St. Pius X in Rochester. James continued to haul milk until 1971, he then farmed until 1996. From there, he worked for Gehling Auctioneers until 2010.

He also loved mowing lawns. He was a lifelong member of St. Columban Catholic Church. He was very active with the American Legion and was past commander of the Preston VFW. He enjoyed being with his grandchildren and going to auctions.
    
Survivors include his wife, Viola; one son, Tom (Micki) and daughter, Linda Gartner, both of Preston; four grandchildren, Brady, Daulton and Bailey Gartner and Jonathan Hanson, all of Preston; one brother, Jerry (Nancy) of Preston; and two sisters, Jeanette Budde of Peru, Ill., and Rita Wilson of Preston.

He was preceded by his parents and two brother-in-laws.
    
Friends may call from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, at Thauwald Funeral Home, and also one hour prior to services at the church.

Online condolences may be left at thauwaldfuneralhomes.com.