Eric David Gardner

Eric David Gardner, 38, of Vancouver, was born June 30, 1987, to Alan and Brenda Gardner, and passed away on February 17, 2026, after a long struggle with schizophrenia.

Eric was an adorable and snuggly, goofy and thoughtful little boy who grew into an extremely intelligent and curious, funny and compassionate man. He attended Salmon Creek Elementary (like his dad), Alki M.S. and Skyview H.S. He was athletic, playing on a state championship soccer team coached by his dad, and later playing basketball at Skyview. He spent 3 successful years at the University of Washington, majoring in biochemistry.

During his senior year of college, Eric developed schizophrenia, an illness that most often emerges in early adulthood. Despite loving support and extensive treatment efforts, his disease ultimately left him choosing to live in Seattle unhoused. We share this to remind others that mental illness is a disease, and many who suffer need compassion and appropriate care.

Eric was a baptized, confirmed, and well loved member of Messiah Lutheran Church. A memorial service will be held at Messiah on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 11:00 AM. Eric never lost his faith. We believe he is at peace now in the arms of God and with the grandparents who loved him, Dale and Regene Urban and Wendall and Dorothy Gardner.

Eric is survived by his parents, Alan and Brenda, his brother and sister-in-law, Bryce and Jessica, and his nephew and niece, George and Alice. He is also survived by loving aunts and uncles, Patti Gardner, Marilyn Gardner and David Gardner, as well as cousins who loved him - Leslie, Matthew, Andrew and Laura. Eric was also fortunate to have many honorary aunts and uncles who helped to support him as best they could.

To honor Eric's memory, please consider donating to: NAMI SW Washington, who helped our family so much; Messiah Lutheran Church for their support of many different community needs; and/or the Winter Hospitality Overflow shelter at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, (WHO in memo line) in Vancouver, WA.