Carl Franklin Gardner, 66, of Richmond, Kansas passed away Saturday, January 20, 2024, at the Olathe Hospice House in Olathe, Kansas. Carl was born on June 3, 1957, in Cripple Creek, Colorado to Coid Franklin Gardner and Marjorie Louise (Gelker / Gardner) Williams.
Carl was a graduate of Vero Beach High School and Indian River State College. He grew up in Troy, Kansas before moving to Vero Beach, Florida. Later in life, he moved back to the Midwest and lived in Richmond, Kansas for many years, where he was an active member of his community and various groups and organizations. Carl was the IT Director for Wolfe Automotive Group for over 23 years. More than anything, he valued his family, faith, and freedom. He was a true patriot and advocate for God and country. He was never afraid to speak his mind and always stood up for what he thought was right. He enjoyed many hobbies like cooking and baking, working out, riding his Harley, restoring classic cars, listening to classic country and rock, as well as telling lots of jokes and stories.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Coid Franklin Gardner, and Marjorie Louise (Gelker / Gardner) Williams, and a sister, Barbara Louise Winder. Survivors include his three children, Heather Croy (Andre), Coyd Gardner, and Cyla Gardner; partner, Susan Cates; grandson, Nolan Croy; brother, Dr. Michael Gardner (Ann); brother-in-law, Keith Winder; and other nieces and nephews.
Carl’s wishes were to be cremated. There is no scheduled funeral service. A Memorial Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 25, 2024, from 2:00 – 4:00 P.M. at the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home in Troy, Kansas. Memorials have been dedicated to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department.
Inurnment will be at a later date.
