William Arthur Gardner

William Arthur Gardner, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and veteran, passed away surrounded by his family on January 29, 2026, in Wrightstown Township, Pennsylvania, at the age of 85. He was born on July 4, 1940, in Newfield, New Jersey, to William J. Gardner and Hilda Pleasanton Gardner, who both predeceased him. He was also predeceased by his brothers, Robert Gardner and Elwood Gardner, and by his sister Hilda Knox.

Bill, as he was known to his friends and family, dedicated over 25 years of his professional life as a systems engineer with IBM, where he was respected for his contributions and expertise. A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, he carried a deep sense of service throughout his life.

He completed his education at Rider College, which set him on a path of achievement that extended into his community involvement. A lifetime member of the PA State Grange, Bill volunteered at the Middletown Grange Fair in Wrightstown Township, demonstrating his commitment to local traditions. He was instrumental in running the computer room for fair entries and added his humor to the program book year after year. He spent many years in service of others by running the “Aid for Friends” program at the Grange. He founded the St. Andrew's CYO Track Team and was the head coach for many years. His contributions to the community were complemented by his roles as a Webelo leader for Pack #3 in Morrisville, PA, swimming judge for the Morrisville swim team, and a member of the V.F.W., and the American Legion.

For more than two decades, he resided in Morrisville, PA before moving to Wrightstown in 1979. Bill was a parishioner at St. Andrew's Roman Catholic Church in Newtown, PA, where his faith played a central role in his life.

Bill's passions were diverse; he was an avid photographer and a keen reader. He loved everything about Halloween and enjoyed “haunting” everything from his front porch to houses and hayrides. He found joy in collecting various items and had a profound love for all things Disney, making annual trips to Disney World a cherished tradition that is still carried on by his children and grandchildren. Additionally, he took pleasure in the intellectual challenge of crossword and sudoku puzzles. He enjoyed airbrush face painting at various events throughout the community and his grandchildren’s birthday parties. Bill, was amazing with the grill and was known for his legendary ribs.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife and high school sweetheart, Brenda M. Richie Gardner of over 63 years; his son, Dr. Tony Gardner; his daughter, Dr. Karen Gardner Richter, and son-in-law, Scott Richter; his granddaughter, Amanda, and her husband Jeff Vellner; and his grandson, Christopher Bagnell. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly.

His Funeral Mass at St. Andrew's Roman Catholic Church and interment with military honors at Washington Crossing National Cemetery will be held privately at the convenience of the family.

William Arthur Gardner leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication that will inspire all who knew him. His presence will be profoundly missed, but his memories will remain in the hearts of many.