ORANGEVILLE - Van Johnson Gardner, our loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend courageously passed from mortality on July 22, 2013, with Georgia at his side.
Van was the seventh of what would become 12 children born to George Albert and Irene Ann Johnson Gardner. He was born on Aug. 5, 1924, in Huntington. Van married Georgia Humphrey on Oct. 3, 1946 in the Salt Lake Temple.
A faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Van served throughout his life in leadership callings such as 1st counselor in the Bishopric at age 24, Young Men's President, and Sunday School Superintendent. Van and Georgia served a mission together in the South Dakota, Rapid City Mission from 1993-1994. He also served as an ordinance worker in the Manti Temple.
He joined the Huntington Glee Club in 1940. He sang at many events with his brothers, numerous others, as well as singing solo. Van was a coal miner and farmer, and loved his farm and animals. He served his country honorably during World War II as a member of the Army, stationed for 28 months in the South Pacific Theater. He was a member of the American Legion, and a member of the Huntington Riding Club. Van was well known for calling and teaching square dancing. He was a member of UMWA Local 6363 for 43 years.
Van is survived by his wife Georgia, children: Lyndon (Shauna Lee) Gardner, Castle Dale, Joyce (Vic) Staley, Orangeville, and Earl (John) Gardner, Ogden; daughters-in-law: Beth Gardner, Altamont and Natalie (Jay Mark) Humphrey, Orangeville; 15 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Van was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Kathryn, son Darrell, seven brothers, two sisters, and a granddaughter.
Funeral services will be held at the Orangeville 1st Ward, Saturday, July 27, 2013 at 1 p.m. with a viewing one hour prior. A viewing will be held on Friday evening, July 26, 2013 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Heritage Funeral Home, 620 North Main St., Huntington. Interment will follow after the service at the Orangeville City Cemetery under the trusted care of the Heritage Funeral Home. Friends and family may sign the guestbook at www.heritagefuneralhomeutah.com.
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