
Peter Bogue Gardner “Pepe”, 66, saved his last spreadsheet, grilled his last steak, drank his last glass of wine, and planned his final trip as he passed away surrounded by family in his Lexington, South Carolina, home on December 14, 2022.
He was born on May 16, 1956 in Caracas, Venezuela, to his parents, Jack and Chris Gardner. He adventured through South America and Europe until landing in Phoenix, Arizona, where he graduated from Arizona State University. In Phoenix, he met his soulmate, Cindy, and they were married on August 19, 1989, when he became an instant father to two sons, Andy and Ryan. For the next 33 years, his family meant the world to him as he raised two boys into men, which he was incredibly proud to call his sons, and became a doting grandfather and great-grandfather, all while living each day with the love of his life.
Pete's profound work ethic and acute business savvy led him to a successful accounting and finance career with several fertilizers, cement, and aerospace companies. While dedicated to his work and extremely loyal to his colleagues, he had many passions that brought him joy outside of his work.
Pete loved to travel the world and meticulously planned his adventures with Cindy. He enjoyed and was knowledgeable in all genres of life and loved the arts, history, and architecture. He loved to read and continuously learn about the world and the people in it. He also loved golf and enjoyed rounds with his buddies. Pete never met a stranger and eagerly exchanged his art of getting to know you. He welcomed opinionated discussions as much as light-hearted conversations; all made better with a glass of fine wine.
Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Cindy, and sons, Andy Grimes (Shelly) of Mesa, AZ, Ryan Grimes (Ingrid) of Lexington, SC; grandchildren including Weston Woolsey (Rachael), Tyler Barnes, Trevor Cullen (Ally Jo), Cody Grimes, Kaleb Grimes, Preslee Grimes; great-grandchildren including Brynlee Woolsey, Beckham Woolsey. Siblings include Tina Coates of Bowling Green, KY, Jay Gardner (Gwyn) of Ann Arbor, MI, and Frank Gardner (Jody) of Littleton, CO. Additionally, so many more family members, including cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who he loved dearly.
Loved ones who preceded his death include his parents, Jack and Chris Gardner; brother-in-law, Chuck Coates; nephew, Roger Coates and great-grandson, Zachary Woolsey.
On behalf of the entire family, we would like to thank you for your caring thoughts, compassion, and fond memories shared of Pete. He was truly unique and loved by so many. A special thanks to Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center of Arizona, Medical University of South Carolina Hollings Cancer Center, and Amedisys Hospice for all your care and support.
A celebration of life for Pete will be held at the Desert Botanical Garden Binns Wildflower Pavilion in Phoenix, AZ, on January 28, 2023 from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Pete gave to many causes over the years. If you would like to make a donation in his memory, please consider donating to The Nature Conservancy or National Wildlife Federation.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.caughmanlexington.com for the Gardner family.
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