Calvin Gardner

Calvin Ladon "Don" Gardner Calvin "Don" Gardner, 88, Sheldon, MO, passed away June 23, 2013, at Good Shepherd Nursing Home, Lockwood, MO. Don was born October 1, 1924, to Floyd and Zula Beydler Gardner, the fourth of seven children. He was raised during the depression on the family's farm where hard work and no pay was the norm. Don attended school in a one-room school house. He enlisted in the Navy in 1944. Don served as a combat air crew man aboard a Martin PBM Bomber; stationed in the South Pacific Theater during WWII. After serving his country, he settled in Challenge, CA where he married Barbara Withers. Four children were born to this union. Don began his working career as a timber faller, and by 1960, he owned and operated a logging company in Redding, CA. He was a hard worker who often helped others less fortunate than himself. Don retired in 1995, choosing to spend his summers fishing Alaska's Kenai River, where he enjoyed catching trophy Rainbow Trout. Winters were spent in Sheldon, MO, only a short distance from where he grew up. Don was a Mason, a Shriner, and sponsor of local youth groups within his community. Don is preceded in death by his wife, Barbara; wife, Doris; youngest son, Christopher; brothers, Aaron, John and Dale. He is survived by sons, Nick Gardner of Redding, CA, and Mike Gardner of Soldotna, Alaska; daughter, Cathy Boyd of Fort Bragg, CA; three grandchildren and six great grandchildren; brothers, Rex and Gene Gardner; sister, Helen Arft. REST IN PEACE, POPS.