John W. Gardner, 65, of Arkansas City, Kansas, passed away Thursday afternoon, March 3, 2016 at the South Central Regional Medical Center in Arkansas City.

Born December 18, 1950 in Winfield, Kansas, he was the son of Roy and Helen (Vaughn) Gardner. He was raised and received his education in Winfield at Holy Name Catholic School and Winfield High School. After school, John joined the United States Army and proudly served his country in Korea.

After his honorable discharge, John returned to Winfield and began working for Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad. He remained at BNSF Railroad for several years, retiring in 1988. He was united in marriage to Carol Marie Buck on December 16, 2004 in Newkirk, Oklahoma. The couple made their home in northern Oklahoma and southern Kansas.

He enjoyed fishing, camping, gardening and cooking. He especially loved music, playing the guitar and singing. He started his first band in high school and many more followed.

His family includes:
His wife: Carol Gardner of Arkansas City;
His daughters: AnnDee McGlory of Oklahoma City, OK; Rachel Nicks of Evergreen, CO; Melanie Pouland and husband, Grant of Ponca City, OK;
His sons: Jesse Fuentes and wife, Kristianna of Ponca City, OK; Zane Womack and wife, Cynthia of Chandler, TX;
His mother: Helen B. Hodges of Winfield;
His sisters: Christina Todd and husband, Larry of Arkansas City; Cynthia Suttles and husband, Bob of Winfield; Mary Ellen Goodwin of Winfield;
His sister-in-law: Vanessa Gardner of Winfield; and
His six grandchildren.

In addition to his father, John was preceded in death by his brother, Michael L. Gardner and his best friends and cousins, Tom and Greg Kent.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M., Wednesday, March 9, 2016 at Holy Name Catholic Church. Military Committal Honors will follow at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery. The Rosary will be recited on Tuesday evening at 7:00 P.M. at the church.

A memorial has been established in John's name for Wounded Warriors. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.