Memorial

Jeffrey R. Gard, 72, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed into Gloryland on June 14, 2025, at UnityPoint St. Lukes Hospital.

The family will greet friends at the Cedar Memorial Park Chapel Stateroom from 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM on Monday, June 23, 2025.  A graveside service will follow with Rev. Robert Whitmore officiating. A reception will take place immediately after the graveside service at the Cedar Memorial Family Center and Library.  

Jeff was born on August 22, 1952, in Cedar Rapids to Richard and Martha (Miller) Gard.  He graduated from Cedar Rapids Jefferson High School and later from Iowa State University.  He taught elementary school in Boone for 34 years.  One highlight of his career was that he managed the Outdoor Classroom at Franklin Elementary.  Upon retirement, Jeff continued to volunteer at Truman Elementary in Cedar Rapids. He was a devoted Christian and attended services at New Covenant Bible Church.

He enjoyed going to local music and sporting events, cheering for his beloved J-Hawks and Cyclones. Jeff was an avid outdoorsman and master fisherman. He loved passing his skills on to his students, friends, and family. 

He is survived by his sister, Polly (Robert) Whitmore of Greenville SC; two nephews and their children, Dr. Bob (Ruth) Whitmore (Faith, Lydia, Isaac, and Matthew) of Storm Lake IA; and Joe (Anna) Whitmore (Ellie, Ava, and Parker) of Taylors SC; cousins, Margot Hafner, Kristie Smith, Diana Meyer, and Eric Santon.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hidden Treasure Christian School (A Ministry of Special Education), located at 500 West Lee Road, Taylors SC 29687 or visit their website at www.hiddentreasure.org.  Your HTCS donations in Jeff’s memory will be applied to their scholarship fund.