In loving memory of

Lulu Gardner
January 20, 1917 - November 8, 2019

Lulu Leona Gardner, daughter of M.H. and Sarah (Dilsaver) Sheldon, was born on January 20, 1917, in the sandhills of Nebraska. She lived her first few years in a sod house, then moved to a brick house her father built with bricks he had made. She attended school in Sargent, NE and grew up there. One of eight children. Her mother died when she was fourteen and she helped raised her infant sister. She later moved to Omaha and went to beauty school.

She met Leo Gardner and moved to Iowa in 1940 and they were united in marriage on August 24, 1940, in Blue Earth, Minnesota. They lived near Titonka for a few years before moving to Algona.

She lived in their home on East North Street for 60 years, before moving to the Windsor Manor in 2013, at age 96. She drove her beloved 1983 Chrysler until she was 95. In 2015 she moved to the Algona Manor.

Lulu was a Brownie and Girl Scout Leader for many years, member of Trinity Lutheran Church, was a part of quilting ladies, and played in the Bell Choir. She painted beautiful pictures and played the piano and organ by ear. She tried to learn how to read music, but could not, but could play anything by ear.

Lulu died Friday, November 8, 2019 at the Algona Manor. She was 102.

Lulu is survived by her son, Ronald Gardner of Georgetown, TX; daughter, Sharon (Russ) Canaday of Algona; four grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, one sister, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Leo; three brothers, two sisters, infant brother, and grandson, Kurt Dahlberg.

Tributes

Jan Fellin wrote on Jan 27, 2020:

"Sharon so sorry to real the loss of your Mother. This is a difficult time for you and just wanted you know that thoughts and prayers are with you"

Joy (Meyer) Taylor wrote on Nov 26, 2019:

"Sharon and Ron. Just found out today about your mother. It was like losing my own mother. Our thought and prayers are with you"

Marilyn Robertson wrote on Nov 14, 2019:

"Aunt Lulu was a kind sweet auntie you was always excited to see her pull into the driveway! She was welcome into heaven with open arms as another angel! I love her so much sorry for the family's loss! Marilyn Robertson"

Kendra Seely wrote on Nov 13, 2019:

"Sharon and family. My deepest sympathy on the loss of your mom. You are in my prayers. Kendra Seely"

Darrell Ludwig wrote on Nov 12, 2019:

"Sharon and Ronald and families. The Gardners lived 2 blocks West of us on East South St. My sister Arleen and myself played with you both. I remember your little house quite well. Your mother Lulu is also quite vivid in my memory. She was a fine and caring lady. My sympathy and prayers are with all of you during this time. Darrell and Sally Ludwig Cedar Falls"

Rosann Shipler wrote on Nov 11, 2019:

"Sharon and family. Your in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult . God bless!! Rosann Shipler"

Trudy Betts wrote on Nov 10, 2019:

"Dear Sharon and family,I am so sorry about your loss,not an easy time .Please know you are in my thoughts,you have my sincere sympathy.Trudy Betts"

Henry W Friedrich wrote on Nov 9, 2019:

"Our Sincere sympathy to Lu's family. We thank God for our memories of her faith In her Savior Jesus Christ and her Tireless spirit. I particularly remember one statement to me when I commented on the work she did. "Every morning as I pray, I just ask the Lord, 'What are we going to do today?'" Then, seeing the task to be done she set out to do it. She saw God as her Partner, enabler in her day's activities."