Thomas Richard Gardner

Thomas Richard Gardner, 87, of Lafayette, passed away peacefully at Iu Health Arnett in Lafayette, on Monday, April 6, 2026. Tom was born on June 14, 1938, in Mishawaka Indiana, to the late Richard Howard and Florence (Maier) Gardner.

Tom married Nancy Grace and later divorced in 1970. On March 7, 1974, Tom was later married to Donna May Hodges. Donna preceded Thomas in death on May 23, 2013. They were blessed with nearly 40 years of a happy marriage.

Thomas attended Riley High School in South Bend. He later went on to attend Purdue University where he earned a bachelor of science in electrical engineering, and later he attended the University of New Mexico where he graduated with a masters of science.

Tom had worked as a professional engineer and a project engineer at the Ed Grace Company in Lafayette for nearly 30 years before eventually retiring. In his free time Tom enjoyed golfing, bowling, and martini’s. He was also a member of the West Lafayette Golf and Country Club. He was a member of Grace United Methodist Church in Lafayette. Tom also belonged to Tau Beta Pi for engineers. He enjoyed watching any and all of Purdue sports. His most cherished time spent was with his loving family.

Over the years Tom made many friends especially in Florida at Fairlane Acers where he would winter. Tom was incredibly outgoing and he never met a stranger.

Tom is survived by daughters; Sherri (Dennis) Crandall, Michelle (Brian) Harner, Nicole (Brett) Sanders, Marissa Gardner, Kathleen (Steve) Brinlee, Kristine Gardiner, son; Jeff (Joanne) Gardiner, brother; Rev. Alan (Lois) Gardner, 18 grandchildren, 31 great- grandchildren, and 1 great-great- grandchild.

Tom was preceded in death by his loving wife; Donna Gardner, a brother; John Gardner, and a grandson; Derek Merrell.

Friends may visit with the family beginning at 11 am. A funeral service honoring the life of Thomas will be held on Monday, April 13, 2026, at 1 pm, with Pastor Bob Duke officiating, located at Shirey Funeral Home, 121 N Union St, Delphi. Burial will follow at Masonic cemetery.

Shirey Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Messages of condolences may be made online at www.shireyfh.com