Lansing
Formerly of Eaton Rapids
Age 96, our loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend passed away December 13, 2012. Born January 10, 1916 in Jackson, MI the son of Don A. & Lula Bird. Gardner attended Howe Military School in his early years ? went on to Jackson High School where he excelled in sports becoming captain of the football team. He was a veteran of WW II, serving in the U.S. Navy as a Pilot. While in the Navy, he married the love of his life, Lorraine Downey, and they shared 70 years of marriage together. He retired from John Bean Corp. as service manager after many years of service. His loved camping, and golfing which he won a senior golf award in his 80?s.
Surviving are his 3 children Gardner ?Bud? (Carol) Bird of Lansing, Michelle (Dave) Foster of Lansing, and Brad (Angie) Bird of Eaton Rapids; 7 grandchildren, Shawn Bird, Shane Bird, Staci (Matt) Caltrider, Chad (Fiancée, Kim) Foster, David Foster, II, Ashley (Josh) Saylor, and Bradley (Amanda) Bird, II; 9 great-grandchildren. Gardner was preceded in death by his wife, Lorraine, and granddaughter, Christie Bird.
Visitation is from 12:30 to 1:30 P.M. Tuesday with services 1:30 P.M. Tuesday, December 18th in the Tiffany Funeral Home, 3232 W. Saginaw, Lansing. Interment will follow at Deepdale Memorial Park. Military Honors by Morley Oates V.F.W. Post #701. The family wishes to thank the owners and staff of Selleck Haven II, Assisted Living in Grand Ledge for their care to Gardner. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Susan G. Komen for the Cure mid-Michigan. Friends may visit the guest book at www.tiffanyfuneralhome.com.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18