John Gardner

North Lawrence – John H. “Jackie” Gardner, 78, passed away in the comfort of his home on Tuesday August 13, 2024. Arrangements are entrusted to Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop.

Jackie was born on June 12, 1946, to the late Howard G. and Irene E. (Snyder) Gardner. He was raised and educated locally, earning his GED so he could enlist in the US Army in 1967. Jack was a proud Vietnam war veteran, loyally serving his country and earning the rank of SP4 before his honorable discharge in 1973.

On November 11, 1969, he married the former Donna A. Woodard in Potsdam. They shared love and life together until the time of Donna’s passing on December 2, 2023.

Throughout his life, Jackie found immense joy in the simple pleasures. He enjoyed hunting and fishing in the beautiful landscapes of New York, finding solace in the tranquility of nature. He also loved a good western. A skilled mechanic, John was a jack of all trades, effortlessly tinkering with cars and tractors. His expertise in maintenance made him an invaluable employee to Cadbury Beverages in Williamson, NY, where he eventually retired from.

He is survived by his three children, John W. Gardner, Belinda Viola, and Charity Gardner; grandchildren Michael Viola and Shayla Gardner; three sisters Connie Gardner, Bonnie Chase, Pauline Parmeter, many nieces and nephews, his dog, Gizmo and his cat, Bear. 

Besides his wife and parents Jackie was predeceased by his siblings, Alberta Diaz, Geraldine Tuper, Margaret Queor, June Snyder, Emma Vega, Darlene Burgos, Donnie Gardner, and Larry Gardner; son – in – law, Mark Viola and daughter – in – law Lorie Gardner.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday August 21st from 10:00AM – 12:00 PM with Jackie’s Funeral service beginning at 12:00 PM at the Hammill Funeral Home. Burial with military honors will follow at St. Lawrence Cemetery in North Lawrence.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Jackie’s honor to the Wounded Warriors Project; support.woundedwarriorproject.org or mail in to P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.

As we bid farewell to Jackie, let us remember the legacy of love, dedication, and strength he leaves behind. May he rest in peace.

Memories and condolences can be shared with Jack’s family at www.hammillfh.com.