Heritage Florida Jewish News - Central Florida's Independent Jewish Voice

Richard Earl Gardner, age 75, of Apopka, Fla., passed away on Friday, Febr. 4, 2022. Richard was born to Harry and Mildred Gardner on April 15, 1946, in Newark, N.J. He served in the United States Marine Corps until he was honorably discharged in 1966. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from Seton Hall University in 1968, and a JD from John Marshall Law School in 1975. He served as a volunteer paramedic for the Randolph, N.J., Rescue Squad and served with the N.J. State Police Marine Bureau on Lake Hopatcong. Richard was the Sr. V.P. of Sales for Greyhound Corp before starting his own consulting firm. He retired in 1999.

Besides his career, Richard was a true Renaissance man. He was a sprinter and competed in the U.S. Olympic trials in 1968. He was a passionate fisherman, particularly fly fishing, and a nature enthusiast. He earned a private pilot’s license and was a certified NRA pistol instructor later in life. He also painted, wrote and enjoyed poetry, and played jazz and rock drums. He was also an avid golfer.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Donna; son Jeff (April); nephews Evan and Scott; nieces Deb and Robin. He was predeceased by his parents and brothers, Fred and Barry.

A funeral service was held at B’nai Abraham Memorial Park in Union, N.J. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society are suggested.