Leonard "Hari" James Gardner

Leonard “Hari” James Gardner, 68, of Glen Campbell, died Saturday, June 13, 2020 as a result of a mowing accident at home.

He was born on July 11, 1951 in Punxsutawney, a son of the late Russell Dow Gardner and Dorothy Alice (McGee) Gardner.

Mr. Gardner was member of the United States Army.

On January 11, 1975, he married the love of his life, Darla Mae Breth.  The two had an incredible love for one another and enjoyed every second of their forty-five years marriage.

“Hari” was a member of the Punxsutawney Alliance Church.  He was very actively involved with the kid’s basketball program at the church, but his dedication didn’t stop there. He also participated in thirteen mission trips with the Samaritan’s Purse, played drums and sang with the worship team at the church, as well as helped out with many other little things.  His devotion and “dedication was the top of line” and he was quick to drop everything to help another person that needed anything.

Mr. Gardner worked as a heavy equipment operator for many years with the Operating Engineers Local #66 from Pittsburgh.  He retired in 2011, after enjoying a successful and fulfilling career.

He was a member of the John W. Jenks Masonic Lodge as well as the Goldwing Club.

Most recently, “Hari” took great pride in helping to restore the mansion on West Mahoning Street.  His workmanship and quality of work with be enjoyed by many who admire the beautiful home he helped return to its original beauty.

His enjoyments were his loving family, especially his grandchildren.  He loved to fish and hunt, ride motorcyles, shop for groceries, and feed the birds, deer and turkey.  He had a true soft spot for his dogs, Murphy, Ollie and his baby (Princess) Reese.

He had a great wit and a good sense of humor that could give anyone a good belly laugh.  “Hari” could strike up a conversation with anyone because he loved to talk, and instantly made friends with those he encountered.

In addition to his dear wife, Darla, he is survived by two children, Kristin Kitchen and husband Michael of Punxsutawney, and Bradley J. Gardner and wife Jessica of Murrysville; four grandchildren,  Madalyn and Landon Peterson, Ella and Jett Gardner, he recently gained two new grandchildren, Gabe and Abby Kitchen; two brothers, Bruce Gardner and wife Marsha, Van Gardner and wife Regina, all of Glen Campbell; and sister, Cindy Williams of Glen Campbell; several nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his parents.

Viewing will be held from 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, June 16, 2020 at Punxsutawney Alliance Church.

A Celebration of Hari’s Life will be held at 6 p.m. at the church, officiated by Pastor Don Jones.

Mr. Gardner will be laid to rest at Burnside Cemetery, Indiana County.

Memorial donations may be made in Mr. Gardner’s memory to Four Footed Friends, 220 Beck Road, Indiana, PA 15701.

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