In Memory
Jack J. Gardner SHALIMAR, Fla. -- Col. (Ret) Jack J Gardner, age 86, of Shalimar, passed away June 3, 2016, at home. Col. Gardner was born in McCook, Neb. in 1929 and had been a resident of the Shalimar Florida area for 39 years. He was a life member of The Retired Officers Association, the NorthWest Florida Retired Officers' Club, the Disabled American Veterans, the Shrine, the Scottish Rite, and the Masonic Lodge. He had also served on several board of directors in the Fort Walton Beach area, including the Eglin Federal Credit Union, El Matador Condominium Association, Okaloosa Island Leaseholders' Association and the American Red Cross. He was also elected for six years to the National Board of Directors for The Retired Officers' Association in Washington, D.C. The 30-year veteran enlisted in the U.S. Army at age 17 and left the Army after World War II as a first sergeant. He volunteered for recall during the Korean War and was commissioned a second lieutenant. He served in the 82nd and 11th Airborne Divisions, did research and development for airborne equipment, was a platoon leader, company commander and battalion commander. He served in a number of special intelligence assignments. He received a Master of Arts degree in International Relations and Area Studies from the American Embassy in Brasilia, Brazil as the Army Attaché. Military awards include two Legions of Merit (one in combat), Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal (with oak leaf), Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal (with oak leaf), Air Medal (3rd award), WWII Victory Medal, Vietnam Armed Forces Honor Medal, Brazilian Military Order of Merit, Brazilian Aeronautic Order of Merit, the Joint Chiefs of Staff Identification Badge, the Army General Staff Badge, Master Parachutist Badge and other service ribbons. Upon retirement, he founded Gardner Enterprises, LLC and Gardner Management, Inc., building, managing and owning 66 rental units in FWB, FL. Subsequent to that, his passion was travelling the nation with his wife. Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Bonnie Jo; son, Mark Gardner; and grandson, James Gardner of Fort Walton Beach, Florida. He requested cremation with burial in Beal Memorial Cemetery with his son, Scott, who predeceased him. Graveside services at Beal Memorial are Friday, June 10, 2016 at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers or donations, the family requests you embrace your loved ones. Emerald Coast Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
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