Dustin Christopher Gardner

Born in 1985, Dustin was the beloved son of Gene and Christie Gardner and was surrounded by a family of love, laughter and a spirit of exploration. He enjoyed weekly trips to the library, the summer library challenge, computer bible competitions against his sister, fixing things, Boy Scouts, annual family vacations hulling walnuts with his grandfather, and hanging out at Aunt Jeanne’s, from whom he could get anything. His bond with his sister and “Ace” Ashley was unbreakable and together with his cousins Nicole and Daniel, navigated their lives with fun, laughter and an unwavering attachment to one another.

Dustin graduated from Crispus Attucks Academic Academy, then, Bishop Chatard High School in 2003. Afterwards, he pursued a Bachelor of Science degree at Indiana University, Bloomington, where he discovered his passion was more for working with his hands than solely with his mind. This self-discovery led to him earning several certifications at Ivy Tech College.

Afterwards, Dustin had a 19-year career at H.G. Metals where he worked as a welder, field installer, project manager, coach, and trusted advisor. He quickly became a master of all and a cornerstone of the family business earning the respect of his coworkers, subcontractors, and customers. He found a second family at H.G. Metals that supported him as he became known as a trusted expert in steel fabrication, with his quick wit and brilliant mind.

Dustin’s zest for life extended far beyond his career. There were many things he enjoyed. He was an avid cook, skilled in grilling. He enjoyed renovating the home he owned in Washington Township, playing fantasy football with his friends, video games. traveling, fishing, and hunting. His passion for life was infectious, and he left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Dustin is preceded in death by his grandfathers, Harrell Hinton Sr., and Major E. Gardner, grandmother Henrietta Gardner, aunts Dorothy McGee, and Hermine Cherry.

Dustin is survived by his grandmother, Doretha Hinton, father Gene Gardner (Cynthia), mother Christie Gardner, siblings; Ashley Gardner-Collins, Sean Gardner (Melissa), Ragena Spells, Teresa Gardner (Julie), aunts; Jeanne Hinton, June Ellington, Sherry Shelton, uncles; Allen Anderson (Norma), Harrell Hinton Jr. (Tenika), Sylvester Gardner, Thomas Hinton (Veda), a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

A visitation for Dustin will be held Sunday, January 12, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Crown Hill Funeral Home & Cemetery, 700 W. 38th St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46208, followed by a Celebration of Life at 2:00 PM.