Fred H. Gardner

1924 - 2021

Fred H. Gardner
August 5, 1924 – March 25, 2021
San Jose, CA
Fred Howard Gardner, Jr., devoted husband, father, grandpa, great-grandpa, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2021. He lived a good, long life for 96 years! He was born in Saratoga, CA on August 5, 1924 to Fred H. Gardner, Sr., and Mabel A. Dengler Gardner. He was predeceased by his parents, his two sisters, Myrtle Gardner Cox and Frances Gardner Paulson, his grandson Mike Gardner (Jaclyn), and his beloved wife, Marilyn Bartholomew Gardner, in 2017. Marilyn was the love of his life for 67 years. They were married at Stone Church Willow Glen where they remained active and met many of their life-long friends. They enjoyed membership in the Merry Weds Dance Club and ONOs for over 50 years. They were lifetime members of the California Pioneers of Santa Clara County.
Fred attended Herbert Hoover Jr. High and San Jose High School. Fred served in the U.S. Army from 1943-1946. He worked at Bank of America from 1947-1984. Fred and Marilyn loved to travel and treasured their many wonderful memories and had many photo albums to prove it! Fred was a local historian and was a docent for San Jose Historical Museum. As a docent in the 1970's and 80's, Fred conducted 5 different downtown San Jose walking tours, trained new docents, and also volunteered at the Japanese Friendship Gardens. Fred also enjoyed being a member of Sons in Retirement (SIRS) and playing bocce ball with other SIRS members.
Fred is survived by his son Paul Gardner (Charmain), daughter Claudia Gardner Farris (Tom), grandchildren Greg Gardner (Laura), Melissa Farris Sheridan (Jeramey), Matthew Farris, and Justine Stimmel (Jon). Fred also adored his great grandchildren Rowan Gardner, Connor Murphy Sheridan, Camryn, Nathaniel and Jacob Stimmel, and his two nieces Audrey Cox Fiance and Jean Cox.
Fred said, "I had such a wonderful life that I think I'll do it again!"
A private burial will be held.


View the online memorial for Fred H. Gardner