Charles F. Gardner

Chuck Gardner was our Precious Husband, Father, Son, Brother, and Friend. He won his battle with cancer on July 6th. Chuck never lost a fight in his life, and he now resides with King Jesus. That is his greatest victory!

Chuck graduated High School at Texas High in 1980. Chuck was a black belt in karate, and had accomplished many titles through his tournament years. He was a member of the Texas National Guardsmen, and served active duty on a short tour in 1985 to Honduras.

Chuck started as a collector at Parks Jewelry Store downtown Texarkana, that company was bought out three years later by World Acceptance Corp. where he was in leadership for 25 years and had become the Senior Vice President.

In 1983 he married Kimberlee Griffis. Four years later they began their family. Chuck was the most proud of fathers, he loved nothing more than being with his family. Jordan was his Angel Girl, the twinkle in his eye, Jake and Hunter were his best friends, they amazed him each one on so many levels. He said many times being THEIR father exceeded all his expectations and gave him enough happiness to last several lifetimes! Chuck and Kimber have been together for 25 years, married for 24 years. They lived, loved, and laughed, with all the love in this world, they never missed an opportunity to say 'I love you' they were truly soulmates.

Chuck is also survived by his sweet mother, Helen Copeland. She has been right here for our family, we love and thank you for your strength. He is also survived by his sister Millie Gardner, who he loves deeply. Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Griffis, Kimber's parents, and Mr. and Mrs. Jerod Griffis, her brother, and his wife refused to ever call Chuck an in-law. He was their son and their brother. They knew him even before his bride. Jerry was a mentor to Chuck since he was 16 years old and Jerod started karate with him when he was only 7 years old. In 1979 Chuck and Jerod both won the Four States Championships for their divisions.

Our Family would like to especially thank the wonderful nurses at Odyssey Hospice, and Dr. John Lerma for the beautiful difference you all made in his life and ours. We are grateful and will continue to lift you up in prayer as you go on to minister to others.

If anyone would rather a donation than flowers, Cancer Therapy and Research Center, P.O. Box 1657, San Antonio, TX 78296, or Caring Bridge, 1995 Rahn Cliff Court, Suite 200, Eagan, MN, 55122 would be special to our hearts.