George Earl Gardner

George Earl Gardner, 66, Howard, KS, passed away Friday, Dec. 18, 2009, at his home. George was born Nov. 27, 1943, in Sheldon, the son of Gale Eugene “Gene” and Bonnie George (Finch) Gardner.

George graduated high school in 1961 in El Dorado Springs. On March 18, 1981, George was united in marriage to Cathy Elaine Tharp in Miami, OK. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force. George was a member of the American Legion Carter Rader Post #149, Masonic Lodge and VFW. He owned Gardner Hay Company for 25 years. George enjoyed fishing, hunting and visiting with people.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Bonnie Gardner; and wife, Cathy Gardner.

He is survived by one son, Justin Gardner - Howard, KS; three daughters - Karla Boone, and husband, Kim - Neal, KS, Bobbi Schurr, and husband, Lance - Hays, KS, and Kimberly Nixon - Eureka, KS; his father, Gene Gardner - Sheldon; one brother, Jim Gardner, and wife, Sheila - Branson; two sisters, Nahwana Maslen, and husband, Johnney - El Dorado Springs, and Karma Curtis and Jack Sportsman - Lamar; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Services were held on Tuesday, Dec. 22, in Zimmerman Funeral Home. Interment was in South Lawn Cemetery in Severy, KS.

The family suggests contributions to the Greenwood County Home Health and may be left with the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.countrysidefh.com. Arrangements were under the direction of Zimmerman Funeral Home, Howard, KS.