David L. Gardner Sr.
SANFORD – It is with great sadness the family announces the passing of David L. Gardner, Sr. on May 10, 2025.
David was born May 26, 1936 to Laurent and Muriel (Merrifield) Gardner of Springvale. He leaves behind a life well rooted in family and dedication to others. Right after graduating from Sanford High in 1954, he joined the army. He was known to share the story that he and a buddy were going to join the Marines but the Marines recruiting office was closed that day so they went to the Army recruiting office instead. A decision he never regretted.
On May 3, 1956, he married Jean Chadbourne who was always by his side. Together they had four children, Donna, Diana, David and Douglas. After proudly serving in the Army for 21 years, the family returned to Sanford where he focused on family, home and church. Retiring from the Army at the age of 39 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and a Bronze Star recipient, David’s second career was that of a poultry farmer taking over the Chadbourne farm from his in-laws, Cecil and Josephine Chadbourne in 1975.
He was very active in the Catholic Church, Rotary, Boy Scouts, many Town of Sanford boards and committees and a successful write-in Selectman candidate, Goodall Hospital Board member and Past President, YMCA board member, Meals on Wheels and Master Gardener. As a Master Gardener he was known for his heirloom tomatoes and massive garlic harvests.
He was predeceased by his brothers Theodore Gardner and Thomas Gardner.
He leaves behind his beloved wife of 69 years, Jean Chadbourne Gardner; children Donna Everson of Wells, Diana Francis of Tucson, Ariz., David Gardner, Jr. of Dripping Springs, Texas and Douglas Gardner of Portland; his much adored sister-in-law, Joyce Chadbourne Gardner and her daughter, Susan, (Joyce is Jean’s twin sister that married David’s brother, Theodore); eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews. David was loved, cherished and an inspiration to so many. He will be dearly missed.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Black, Heald and Walker Funeral Home, 580 Main St., Springvale. To view David’s memorial page or leave an online condolence, please visit blackfuneralhomes.com
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in remembrance of David to
Safe Haven
Humane Society
P.O. Box 91
Wells, ME 04090
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