John H. Gartner

Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Heine (Henry) Gartner and Catherine (Lennon) Gartner.

John lived a storied life as a stunt man, teacher, principal and business owner. As a stunt man he appeared in many iconic TV shows of the 1950’s and 1960’s. He attended Providence College where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree and later a Master’s Degree in Elementary Administration. He began his teaching career with the City of Providence and later was a Principal for the State of RI at a school that catered to children with special needs. He was also a Marine Corps Veteran.

At age 92 while battling interstitial lung disease and heart disease he authored a book titled “The Foghorn”. The book was based on a hurtful time when as a child he was told that his loud voice prevented him from visiting his elderly aunts! The moral of his story was that it is possible to triumph over adversity and that you should never give up.

John was larger than life and loved writing, reading, conversation and looking at his outdoor bird friends.

Besides his loving wife, he leaves a niece Pamela and his nephew Justin and many grand nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Bernard Gartner and uncle of the late Craig Gartner and John Gartner.

Visitation will be held Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 10 AM at Ocean State Baptist Church 600 Douglas Pike, Smithfield followed by a service in the church at 11AM. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations made be made in John’s memory to the HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center, 1085 North Main Street, Providence RI 02904 or the RI Community Food Bank, 200 Niantic Avenue, Providence RI 02907.

For online tributes and condolences, visit www.pontarellimarinofuerals.com