Richard L Gardner Sr.

Born May 23, 1928, Richard – who also went by the nickname Deadeye – was the son of Charlie and Hazel (Evans) Gardner.

He was the fourth eldest of six siblings.

Richard grew up in Clearfield’s Paradise neighborhood and moved to Reedsville in his teens. That’s where he met his wife, the former Wava J. Aughenbaugh, who survives at home.

Richard and Wava wed on July 4, 1951, in Clearfield. They have three children: Richard Jr. and wife Christine; Hollie Johnston and husband Larry; and Craig and wife Debi, who survive.

He was a U.S. Army veteran, having served during the Korean conflict. He was a member of the Clearfield American Legion for 50 years.

Richard was a hard worker and good provider, working for several years as a long-distance truck driver for Clearfield Truck Rentals. He also hauled fuel for Crago and Cook of Clearfield. He spent 14 years as the tipple manager for Power Operating in Osceola Mills. After retirement, he put his driving skills to use as a school bus driver for Fullington Bus Co. and also jockeyed trailers for Kurtz Bros.

He was Presbyterian by faith and a lifetime member of the Second Ward Fire Co. He also held numerous positions on the Clearfield Borough Council.

Richard was known for his gruff demeanor and sharp, quick-witted sense of humor. A master storyteller, he was able to spin tales that could captivate audiences young and old. He cared about the Clearfield community and was an avid reader, keeping up with local and national news.

In addition to his wife and children, Richard is survived by his brother Jack H. Gardner and wife Judy of Clearfield. He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Jodi Addleman and husband Ryan of Grampian; Charles R. Gardner and wife Jessica of Clearfield; Jamie Way and husband Scott of Clearfield; Jessica Steele and husband Joe of Clearfield; Ashley Kritzer and husband Tyler of Tampa, Fla.; Craig A. Gardner Jr. and wife SaVannah of Ulster; and Meghann Gurbal of Clearfield.

He is also survived by 11 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Elsa Buck and Louise Gardner; and two brothers, Charles “Stub” Gardner and Ward Gardner.

Honoring Richard’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

The family suggests that any contributions be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bennett and Houser Funeral Home, Inc.

To send online tributes, go to www.bennettandhouser.com or www.mem.com