Robert Gardner

Robert W. Gardner, 85 of Port Orchard, died June 20, 2010 in Bremerton.  He was born to Roy & Esther (Straight) Gardner in Sawtelle, CA.  His twin brother John arrived 15 minutes earlier.  Bob married Jeanne Miller on May 25, 1947, just 15 minutes before his brother John married Peggy Miller, Jeanne's sister. Bob worked as an Electrician for Sears and became an Engineer for their first large store in San Jose, CA.  He supervised its building and also closed it on the last day of operation.  He retired in 1984 and moved to Port Orchard.  He also served in the U.S. Navy in WWII as an Armed Guard.  He was a Gunner aboard Liberty ships and always up front in the Pacific Island areas, reaching Tokyo 3 days after surrender.  Bob was an active Kawanis member, Eagles Worthy President from 1989 - 1990, served on the Veterans Affairs Committee for Kitsap County, and was given the title of Mr. Post 30 American Legion.  Surviving are His loving wife of 63 years, Jeanne; daughter Michelle Swanson of Port Orchard; son Robert Michael Gardner of Bakersfield, CA; sister Cecile Farrand of Temple City, CA; granddaughters Christine Halverson & Carolyn Swanson; great-granddaughters Abigail & Allison Halverson.  He was preceded in death by his infant son Steven and infant daughter Denise.  Memorial Service at 2:00pm on Tuesday, June 29, 2010 at First Lutheran Community Church in Port Orchard.  No flowers please.