Larry Gardner

In Loving Memory of Larry Lyman Gardner

April 29, 1929 - April 14, 2025

Just shy of his 96th birthday, Larry Lyman Gardner passed away peacefully on April 14, 2025. Born April 29, 1929, in Delta, Utah, Larry was the cherished son of Edward Eugene and Gene Lovell Gardner, he was the fifth of eight children.

Larry lived a life marked by quiet strength, deep compassion, and unwavering faith in the Savior Jesus Christ. A devoted soldier, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, he touched countless lives with his kindness, generosity, and service.

He married the love of his life, Barbara Pearce on November 18, 1955. They shared 70 beautiful years together. They met in Moab, Utah, lived a few years in Gunnison, Colorado, before settling in Taylorsville, Utah, where they made their forever home the past 64 years. Their home was filled with warmth and love and was known for its meticulous yard and flourishing garden. A testament to Larry's hardworking spirit and farm boy roots. His last name suited him well: he was truly a Gardner, nurturing both land and relationships with equal devotion.

Larry proudly served his country in the United States Army from March 19, 1951, to August 31, 1956. He worked for Hercules AeroSpace for 28 years. He was also a beloved member of the McDougal Funeral Home team, serving families with compassion for 32 years. He also served faithfully in his community and church, including Bishop of the Taylorsville 16th Ward (1971-1976), Counselor in the Taylorsville Utah Stake Presidency, and on the Board of Directors for the Hercules Federal Credit Union.

One of Larry's joys was working with his hands. He had a deep love for woodworking, and his creations became treasured heirlooms for his family. He carefully crafted toy cars to sturdy picnic tables and barbie houses, Larry built with purpose and love. His family will forever cherish the memories of playing with his handmade toys, eating at tables he constructed, and watching him work in his shop with quiet focus and skill. He found joy in sharing this talent with others and teaching them how to make things.

Larry had an adventurous heart. He loved rockhounding and could often be found hunting for geodes, fossils, and other natural treasures. Whether in the mountains or desert, he had a gift for spotting beauty in the earth and sharing those discoveries with his grandkids. His sense of wonder and appreciation for the world around him was contagious. He taught those he loved to slow down, observe, and treasure the little things

Larry's love for others was evident in the way he lived - always ready to lend a helping hand, give generously, and share a warm smile. For many years he delighted children as Santa's helper, spreading joy during the holidays. He was always prepared for any child that came to say hi to give them butterscotch candy or sucker from his pocket.

Larry is survived by his devoted wife Barbara and their children Scott (Julie), Kent (Annette), and Richard (Jill). He is also remembered lovingly by his 12 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his beloved daughter Janice Dabb (Steven) and great-granddaughter Makayla Grace Hunsaker.

Larry's greatest joy was his family. He was endlessly proud of them and showed his love through acts of service, quiet strength, and unwavering support. His example of faith and love will live on in all who knew him.

Larry was a shining light, a faithful disciple, and a man whose life was a true reflection of the Savior he loved. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, service, and faith will continue to bless generations to come.

Services to Honor Larry's Life

Public Viewing:

Tuesday, April 22, 2025 ' 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

McDougal Funeral Home

4330 S. Redwood Road, Taylorsville, UT 84123

Viewing Prior to Service:

Wednesday, April 23, 2025 ' 10:30 AM - 11:45 AM

Taylorsville 16th Ward

3495 West 4850 South, Taylorsville, UT 84129

Funeral Service:

Wednesday, April 23, 2025 ' 12:00 PM

Taylorsville 16th Ward

3495 West 4850 South, Taylorsville, UT 84129

Interment:

Utah Veterans Cemetery

17111 South Camp Williams Road, Bluffdale, UT 84065

Thank you to Kim Dewitt and Nikki Eddleman of Aspire Hospice & Home Heath for their care, kindness and loving service to Dad.