Larry Wayne Gardner

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Larry Wayne Gardner, a devoted father, grandfather, and friend, who left us on Saturday, December 9, 2024, at the age of 73 in the comfort of his home. Born on January 15, 1951, in Hastings, Nebraska, Larry was the beloved son of Lindy “Boots” Gardner and Dorothy May Albers. He attended Bloomington Elementary School and graduated from Franklin High School in 1969. After high school, Larry pursued his passion for technology at Central Nebraska Technical Institute, where he earned a diploma in software engineering in 1972.

In February 1973, Larry enlisted in the United States Air Force, beginning a distinguished career that would shape his life in meaningful ways. He served at various bases, including Keesler AFB, Fort Monmouth, Andrews AFB, and Pease AFB, before being stationed at Incirlik AFB in Turkey. During this time, Larry contributed to the establishment of vital satellite and telecommunications systems for the USAF, ensuring the success of operations around the globe. After returning from Turkey, Larry was reassigned to Offutt AFB in Omaha, Nebraska, where he was honored as Airman of the Month, Airman of the Quarter, and nominated for Airman of the Year. He proudly attained the rank of Staff Sergeant (SSgt), a reflection of his dedication and commitment to service.

Upon his honorable discharge, Larry transitioned to civilian life, initially working for a local cable company. He then became a civilian contractor for the Department of Defense in Omaha, specializing in satellite communications. His excellence in his field earned him the prestigious Civilian of the Year award in 1983. Larry later continued his career with TCG/AT&T, where he made lasting contributions to the telecommunications industry.

Larry’s passion for space, electronics, and music began in childhood and remained a constant throughout his life. He loved to tinker, taking apart gadgets and putting them back together, often while watching Star Trek, NASCAR, or WWE. He was inspired by the innovative spirit of the SpaceX program, eagerly sharing launch times with friends and family. In his downtime, he enjoyed simple pleasures like crab legs and sunflower seeds—two loves he shared with his children and grandchildren. Larry’s quick wit, infectious humor, and playful personality made him a joy to be around and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Larry was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy; his father “Boots;” his brothers, Warren and Ron; his sister-in-law, Linda; and his nephew, Aaron.

He is survived by his children with Kathy Tilton, Shane Michael (Heather) and Shannon Melissa (Michael); his daughter and stepson with Rebecca Aragon, Elizabeth May (Alex) and Christopher Michael (Alyse); his grandchildren, Amanda, Laci, Gabe Gardner, Hayden Toothman, Taygen Toothman, and Aaralynn Martinez; his sister-in-law, Connie Gardner; nieces, Karly, Courtney, and Nicole.

Larry’s legacy is one of love, loyalty, and laughter. His deep commitment to his family, his service to his country, and his infectious spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. As Captain James T. Kirk so aptly said, “Of all the souls I’ve encountered, his was the most human."

CELEBRATION OF LIFE Friday, December 27, 2024 from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Kahler-Dolce Mortuary, 441 N Washington Street, Papillion, Nebraska 68046. INURNMENT 1:30 PM at Omaha National Cemetery, 14250 Schram Road, Omaha, Nebraska 68138.