Jack Stanley Gardner, 73, passed away unexpectedly June 23, 2021 at his home in Crawfordsville, Indiana.

He was born October 1, 1947 in Nappanee, Indiana to Jasper and Melba (Orn) Gardner.

Jack graduated from Nappanee High School in 1965.  He entered the United States Army at Fort Still, OK from May 1975-January 1977.  He was honorably discharged.  He attended college at Cameron University, Lawton, OK.  He was employed as an auto body repairman, State Farm insurance adjuster and most recently, a friendly face at the Crawfordsville Street Dept. "The Yard."

He married the love of his life, Rachel Lutes, on June 10, 1972.  They lived in Michigan, Oklahoma, Washington, and then returned to Crawfordsville for the remainder of his life.

He was an active member of the Sons of the American Legion.

His interests included NASCAR racing, NFL football and watching the news.  Jack was a man with a warm heart, a friendly face and great sense of humor.  He enjoyed talking with anyone that was willing to chat and especially loved a good political debate.  He gave the best genuine hugs and he always told you he loved you.  He was a wonderful father, grandfather and great-grandfather.  You would find him at most sporting events that involved his family.

Jack is survived by: his wife, Rachel; brother, Richard (Kathline) Gardner; sister, Diane (George) Russell; five sons and their spouses, Jimmie Gardner, Lonnie (Rose) Coffenberry, Shawn (Melanie) Gardner, Brad (Karri) Gardner, Chad (Summer) Gardner; eleven grandchildren, Brandon, Javan (Susanna), Skyler (Rebecca), Vyctoria, Blake, Slayde, Lilly, Creed, Victoria, Angel, Victoria; and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Lowell (Peggy), Dallas (Velma), Donald, sisters, Rosemary, Judy, and grandson, Jonathan Coffenberry.

A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held Sunday, August 15, 2021 from 1-4 PM at the Crawfordsville American Legion.

Donations may be sent to the American Heart Association in lieu of flowers.