Donald Gardner, II

Born in Cedar Rapids, IA
Born on Aug 1, 1952
Departed on Jun 15, 2025

Memorial

Donald Keith Gardner, II, 72, of Cedar Rapids, IA, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025, at Evergreen Estates Assisted Living Center.

Don was born on August 1, 1952, to Blanche Hallquist and Donald Keith Gardner. He grew up in Cedar Rapids and attended Jefferson High School before moving with his family and graduating from high school in Colorado. He went on to attend the University of Colorado Boulder for a short time before returning to Cedar rapids to pursue a career as an electrician. After completing his apprenticeship, Don became a journeyman electrician and worked proudly for IBEW Local 405 for the duration of his career.

On November 22, 1975, Don married Sheila Edwards, and together they raised three daughters: Jenna Gardner (Jesse Black), Anna Matheny (Andrew) and Kara Visek (Kyle). He was a proud and devoted grandfather to eight grandchildren: Colton (17), Aiden (9), Knox (8), Addison (7), Karanna (7), Lola (7), Kyler (5), and Kohen (3).

Don is survived by his daughters, grandchildren, and three sisters, Karen Rajtora, Cindy Grieder, and Vicki Edwards. He was preceded in death by his parents, Blanche and Donald, Sr.

A true family man, Don found his greatest joy in spending time with loved ones and watching his grandchildren grow. He was a passionate sports fan, cheering faithfully for the Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Cubs, Okland A’s, and Denver Broncos. He cherished the simple things in life-good company, a lively game of dice, and a cold drink in hand.

A visitation will be held at the Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 1 from 4 to 7 PM. A funeral service will be held at the Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 11 AM with the Certified Celebrant, Randy Walton officiating. Later this summer, on what would have been his 73rd birthday, a private celebration of life and inurnment will be held for the family on August 1. 

Don’s legacy lives on in the laughter of his grandchildren, the stories shared around the table, and the strength of the family he helped build. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. 

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the National CMV Foundation.