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Donald Gardner Obituary
DONALD L. GARDNER
January 28, 1929 ˜ August 26, 2023
My dad, Don Gardner was born on Jan. 28, 1929, in Nyssa, OR. He served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean conflict as a radio technician. He married my mom, Paula in 1950. Together, they raised us kids, my brother, Jon; my sister, Ann Marie and myself. His technical aptitude eventually led him to a career with Hewlitt-Packard way back in the 60s, back when Mr. Hewlitt and Mr. Packard would personally attend the annual company barbecues thrown for the employees and their families. His job would take him from Cupertino, CA, to Colorado Springs, to Escondido, CA, and finally to Vancouver.
He and my mom were married for 67 years before she passed in 2017. Together, they faced the challenges and joys that living brings. From the heartache of losing two of their children, to the birth of their two grandchildren, my parents weathered the storms and celebrated the victories. My dad passed away on Aug. 26, 2023. His final thoughts were of his wife: “Where’s Paula?” he asked. We assured him she was waiting for him.
Don was preceded in death by his wife, Paula; his son Jon; and his daughter, Ann Marie. He is survived by his son, Dave; daughter-in-law, Becca; and grandsons, Daniel and Stephen.
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Memories and Condolences
for Donald Gardner
6 Entries
Jerry Hertel
September 15, 2023
I came to know Don best after retiring from HP. And add me to the list of those who always enjoyed having conversations with Don, especially due to his passion for politics. With John & Joyce's help, I visited with him at home as well as our monthly retirees' lunches. He will be missed.
Bob Jones
September 13, 2023
Don is one of those people you never forget. I first met Don in 1965 when I was deciding if I wanted to come to work for HP. Don toured me around Colorado Spring helping me learn about the town and company. Fortunately I made the right decision and got to know Don over many years. Later in 1980 I transferred to Vancouver and got to work with Don on many projects for the new printer division. Don was always fun to talk to. He was knowledgeable about most any subject and I enjoyed getting his opinion, whether it was about politics, HP, or how to fix something at home. I'm thankful Don was part of my life.
Bob Jones
margaret walker
September 12, 2023
He was one of my favorite patients at my father's dental office. He always love to chat with me and tell me storys. What a gem to have known and now he is with his Paula.
john & joyce
September 7, 2023
We will always remember Don fondly. He was fun to converse with on a wide range of topics including his experiences during a long and very successful career at HP. Don was a well-liked and highly respected manager at HP which is where we came to know him. We have stayed in touch with him since our retirements. Sometimes we and others discussed topics with Don where we had differing views and he enjoyed sparring and learning others´ viewpoints. Don was always positive, smiling and a joy to be with.
Rest in peace friend,
John & Joyce
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Dan Edelstein
September 7, 2023
I have nothing but fond memories of Don. I joined Hewlett-Packard Company in 1981, and I would often hear Don's jolly laughter across the site. He was bald ... I remember chuckling at a placard on his desk: "God created only a few perfect heads. The rest he covered with hair." Don was good-natured, never seemed to be in a bad mood. I'll miss you, Don.
Kelli
September 6, 2023
I had the pleasure of working with Don for nearly a year as his nurse. We had lots of wonderful conversations and he talked so fondly of his life, Paula, and the kids. He enjoyed his plants and taught me a thing or two caring for his blessed orchids. Sassy was a fun and wonderful companion to Don. Thank you to her new family, Don is smiling down on you! Don was a very intelligent man and thought through all things simple to complex. I feel blessed to have known him and to be able to call him my friend Rest easy Don you are now home with Paula and the kids.
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