"Cheri - My sincerest condolences to you and your family. I remember your dad exactly like the picture posted here, with a friendly smile I'll never forget. I am so sorry for your loss. Bonnie"
In loving memory of
Forrest A. Gardner
October 14, 1935 - December 15, 2011
ROCHESTER -Forrest Forrie A. Gardner, 76, died on Thursday, December 15, 2011 at Sunrise Cottages in Rochester.
Forrest was born in Chatfield, MN on October 14, 1935 to John and Ethel (Foreman) Gardner.Forrest married Lola Unruh on October 23, 1952 in Austin, MN.He worked for IBM for 35 years.Forrest was involved with the Golden Kiwanis and Christmas Anonymous.He was also a lifetime member of the Elks.Forrest enjoyed anything outdoors especially fishing, golfing, biking, walking, swimming, and cross country skiing.
Forrest is survived by his wife of 59 years, Lola; four children, Bradley (Sharon) Gardner, of Apple Valley, MN, Cheri (Bruce) Miller, of Rochester, Nancy (Steve) DeVinny of Rochester, and Kathy (Tom) Mulvihill, of Rochester; three sisters, Helen Finley, of Rochester, Phyllis Hanson, of Austin, and Audrey Arens, of Wichita Falls, TX; six grandchildren, Tami (Mike) Weispfenning, of Chaska, MN, Matt (Kelly) DeVinny, of Rosemount, MN, Sarah (Alex) Currie, of Apple Valley, MN, Adam (Kelly) Miller, of Coon Rapids, MN, Jill (Jesse) Davenport, of Fayetteville, NC, and Bryant DeVinny, of Rochester; and six great grandchildren, Hannah, Jesse, Cayson, Kiya, Kennedy, and Kole.
Forrest often said I am thankful for my wonderful family.
Forrest is preceded in death by his parents and four brothers, Richard, Lyle, Duane, and Kirk.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, December 19, 2011 at Hosanna Lutheran Church, 2815 57th Street NW with Rev. William Meiers officiating.Visitation will be from 2-5 P.M. on Sunday, December 18, 2011 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home and an hour prior to the service at the church.Burial will take place at Oakwood Cemetery
Memorials can be directed to Hosanna Lutheran Church or the Alzheimer's Association.
Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes
5421 Royal Place NW,Rochester, MN.
(507) 289-3600
www.ranfranzandvinefh.com
Tributes
"Lola, Our sympathy to you and your family on the death of Forrest. May God bless and keep you during this hard time and the holiday season."
"My sympathy to Lola and family in your loss. I have many fond memories of our days together at IBM, Forrie was always very responsive and helpful when his assistance was needed. Mert Urness Green Valley, AZ "
"Our thoughts and prayers are with you. One of my fondest childhood memories is Bruce and Cheri bringing me over to Cheri's parents and Forrie playing the ukelele for me! May God lift you up, hold you and comfort you during this difficult time."
"Lola and family, So sorry to hear of your loss. God will give you strength to face the sad days ahead. My sympathy to you all."