Obituary for Vernon Gardner

Vernon E. Gardner

May 12, 1932 – April 6, 2019

Vernon E. Gardner longtime Ponca City resident passed away Saturday morning, April 6, 2019 with his family by his side. He was 86 years of age. Vernon was born May 12, 1932 in Ponca City to John R. Gardner and Verna E. Grayson Gardner.

Funeral services will be held 2 pm Saturday, April 13, 2019 in the Chapel of Grace Memorial Chapel of Ponca City with Pastor Chris Short officiating. Interment will follow in the Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, April 11, 2019 from 3p.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday, April 12, 2019 from 8 am to 8 pm at Grace Memorial Chapel of Ponca City.

Vernon attended the Ponca City school system and he met the love of his life Elva Lea Simanek and they were married April 12, 1952 in Enid, OK. They made their home in Ponca City, OK. Vernon worked as a machinist for Nichols Machine from 1957 to 1991 when he retired. Vernon was a member of the Ponca City Police Auxiliary for 20 years and a active member of the Sooner Motorcycle Riders, CMA Motorcycle Association and the Classic Car Club. He was also a member of the First Christian Church and Moose Lodge.

Surviving are 1 son; Steven Gardner and wife Karen, 1 daughter Tami Gardner all of Sand Springs, OK. Also surviving are Grandchildren: Michell Johnson and husband Rocky, Stefanie Thornberry and husband Allan. Great grandchildren; Hailey Malone, Cambry Malone, Vaughn Johnson, Vincent Johnson, Ashlyn Johnson, Alex Thornberry, Ethan Thornberry and Spencer Thornberry. Vernon is also survived by his sister; Anna Lea Stolhand of Ponca City and numerous nieces and nephews.

Vernon was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Elva of 62 years.

Online condolences are available at www.gracememorialchapel.net