Robert D. "Bob" Gardner

 Robert Dale Gardner passed away at his home in Emmett, Idaho on Thursday, October 28, 2021 at the age of 96.

 Robert was born in Emmett, Idaho on April 16, 1925 to Oliver and Lillie Gardner.  He joined 3 sisters: Lelia Brogan, Leola Price, Juanita Gardner and a brother, Melvin Gardner. Later Loyd Gardner and Betty L. Gardner joined the family.

 He went to school at Hanna and Bramwell but left before graduating to help his father on the farm.  He entered the Navy in 1944 and was shipped to Okinawa after marrying Betty Worley, his sweetheart, on a 3-day leave.  He did not see her for over a year until he returned after the peace treaty was signed ending World War II.  They were happily married for 73 years before her passing in 2018.

 After trying his hand at farming and being a ditch rider, he was employed at the Boise Cascade Mill, working the night shift for 8 years.  Through observation and reading books on carpentry, he started Bob’s Building Business.   He built his first house in 1954 and from there, with his brother-in-law, Ted Worley, he built houses for many in Emmett, including several churches in the Treasure Valley and an addition to the mill in Horseshoe Bend. Even after retirement in 1990, he continued to do small remodeling jobs.

 Robert was very active in the Community Bible Church and was the last living charter member. He was honest, had a sense of humor, and always a gentleman.

 He leaves behind three children: Larry (Sherry) Gardner, Judene Presley and Terry (Carol) Gardner; a sister, Betty L. Gardner, 8 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.   He is preceded in death by his wife, 7 siblings, and his building partner and brother-in-law, Ted Worley.

 Services will be held at the Potter Funeral Chapel on Thursday, November 4 at 11:00 am with visitation on Wednesday, November 3 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the Chapel.

 In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gideon’s International or Emmett Christian Education Release Time.

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