John L ”Jack” Gardner, age 94 of Nazareth, Pennsylvania was called home on August 21, 2020.
We are heartbroken over our loss, but thankful for Jack’s well lived life and knowing that we will see him again. Jack was humble, gracious, kind and loving. He loved life, his family and the Lord.
Jack was born in Dover, Delaware on January 14, 1926, the son of John H Gardner and Mary J Ott Gardner. He graduated from Wilson High School with the class of 1944. Upon graduating from high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy to serve his country during World War II. He graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Biochemistry and was a lifelong Nittany Lion fan. He worked with Central Scientific Company, Varian and Associates, and Ohaus Scale Corporation in various roles in leading National Sales teams.
Jack married the absolute love of his life, Eleanor May Hufnagel on Nov 19, 1950. Anyone who knew Jack would say his love and devotion for Eleanor was eternal.
A very active member of Olivet Presbyterian Church in Easton, Pennsylvania, he served as Sunday School Teacher, Trustee and Elder, and also served on the Lehigh Valley Presbytery. Jack was active in the Boy Scouts leading troops V-13 and 25. He volunteered with various organizations including Safe Harbor, Miller Blood Bank, Meals on Wheels, and the Easton Exchange Club.
Jack and Eleanor enjoyed travel throughout the United States and Europe. He loved any event that involved his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed fishing, golf and country music. He always had a project going around the house and garden that kept him busy. But, a perfect day would be spent with family at “The Green House” in Ocean City NJ.
Jack was predeceased by his wife of 67 years, Eleanor. He is survived by his son John E Gardner (wife Laurie B) of Furlong, Pennsylvania and daughter Lori E Wollman (husband Frederick W) of Raleigh, North Carolina. He considered himself to be extremely blessed by his four grandchildren, Lindsey Wade (husband John), Bob Gardner, Christopher Wollman (wife Jessica) and William Wollman (wife Meghan).
The family especially wishes to thank the staff at Moravian Hall Square for their care, love and support. Contributions may be made to the Good Samaritan Fund or the Employee Assistance Fund at Moravian Hall Square, 175 W. North Street, Nazareth, PA 18064.
Private graveside services will be held at Easton Heights Cemetery.
Offer online condolences at www.AshtonFuneralhome.com.
Jan Dalton (Mest)
August 26, 2020 at 8:22 am
Lori and John – So many fond memories of our younger days/our parent younger days. I hope Uncle Jack and Dad have met up and are currently catching some very large fish! Although, I don’t think they minded when they didn’t catch anything, it was just the fun of going fishing together! Your Dad lived a wonderful life and he’ll live on forever In your hearts. Please know you and your families are in my thoughts and prayers.
Bill Mandry
August 26, 2020 at 11:25 am
John and Lori. I’m so sorry to hear of your father’s passing.I always admired him for his kind nature, enthusiasm and positivity, faith, love of family and intelligence.I remember that he would always listen carefully when I spoke to him and he always had something positive to say. He made sure that we had a good time on Stephen Street when I visited Nana Pensyl when we played for hours on end John.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you both and I hope that you are both well during this difficult time.
Nancy Steward Freidl
August 26, 2020 at 12:24 pm
Lori, John and families-Our deepest sympathy at this trying time. Your dad lived a long and blessed life enriching all those who had the privilege of knowing him. Both your mom and dad were wonderful friends to our family, and, most certainly, our parents are enjoying some time together now with Our Lord. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
Love, the Steward and Freidl families
John Mest
August 26, 2020 at 7:52 pm
So sorry for your loss! I am sure our fathers are catching up! You are all in our thoughts and prayers!