Michael Gardner

MICHAEL GARDNER

Cedar Rapids

Michael "Mike" K. Gardner, 62, passed away Friday, Jan. 16, 2015, at home surrounded by his loving family, due to complications from Alzheimer's disease.

He is survived and missed by his loving wife of 44 years, Christine "Chris;" sons, Chad (Kimberly Morning) and James (Erin); and mother, Gloria Rodriguez. He also will be missed by grand-children, Kiaya, Nick and Gabby; sisters, Debbie Strope (Wanda Williams), Cindy (Scott) Nye and Tracy (Pancho) Calderon; brother, Dan Johnson; as well as second mom, Cheryl; other brother, Shawn; and sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Linda and Bernie Dixon.

He was preceded in death by his father, Keith; second father, Tom; sisters, Janis and RaeLee; and brother, Justin.

Mike was born Oct. 13, 1952, in Cedar Rapids. In 1970, he graduated from George Washington High School, where he met and married the love of his life. He worked at Wilson/ Farmstead for 22 years where he became union president (AFL/CIO PC 3). He subsequently worked at Goodyear, Mount Vernon Road, for 16 years.

His pride and joy were his boys, his grand- children, and his large family. He also enjoyed the Chicago Bears, the Megonigle Race Team (Go Big Dog!), and the Iowa Hawkeyes.

A visitation will be Tuesday evening, Jan. 20, at Cedar Memorial Park Chapel of Memories from 5 until 7 p.m., and from 1 until 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, at the chapel. A memorial service will immediately follow at 2 p.m.

His ready smile and razor wit will be greatly missed. "Heavy is the head that wears the crown."

A memorial fund in Mike's name has been established.

Online condolences may be left at www.cedar memorial.com.