Archie C. Gardner Obituary (1935

Our special friend, husband, and father Archie went to find us a new camp and fishing hole, July 22, 2016. Archie Clifton Gardner began his life April 23, 1935, the son of Archie & Ethel (Bilyeu) Gardner. The family traveled wherever there was work. In 1952 at the age of 17 he joined the Army and was stationed at Ft. Ord, California, proudly serving with the 101st Airborne. His country and veterans were important to him. Loving country music lead him to become the leader of Archie & the Fugitives, a well liked successful band with a strong following in California and Las Vegas. For 50 years he was a long haul truck driver. He also worked in the truck and auto body industry. He loved waterskiing, fishing, and Bar-B-Que's. He enjoyed the History Channel and documentaries. Arch first met Karen in 1986 at her family's restaurant where he was a customer. They met again in January 1995 and became friends. Later he convinced her to marry him; on March 21, 1999 they started their journey together. Camping, fishing trips and motorcycle adventures became some of the things they loved. Often their grandchildren joined them in the Tampico area. They also enjoyed horseback riding and their small farm, raising chickens, rabbits, & cows. His three dogs, Jock, Sassy & Blackie and one mean cat, Scamp, were his companions. He is survived by his wife Karen of 17 years; her children: Andy & Angela and their families in the Yakima area; his sons Carl (Nancy) and their family in Fowler, CA, Chris (Michelle) and family, in Siloam Springs, Arkansas; Kevin, & Archie (Crystal) and their family of Selah; his loved grandchildren: Christopher, Ashlee, Brooke, Raven, Tayvien, Dayja, Miguel, Elida, great grandchildren: Aiden, Savanna and a precious little one on the way; and many nieces and nephews who will miss him. His special friends Luther Purdom, Bob Bolding, & Gene Stallings shared his life. He was preceded in death by his parents: Ethel & Archie; brothers: Albert, Dick, & George; sisters: Susie, Ethel (Tootsie), & Gertie all whom he loved. We will all miss him and feel that empty place he was left. Knowing he will be waiting just around the bend. Staking out the best camping and fishing spot for us. He might already have something on the Bar-B-Que to greet us. Rest in peace my dear friend.