Kenneth Wayne Gardner
Marietta- Kenneth Wayne Gardner, 98, passed away on April 23, 2025 at his home in Marietta. He was born March 11, 1927 in Itawamba, County, Mississippi. Kenneth “Ken” was born and raised in the Ozark Community of Marietta and left the area for the first time when he entered the USAF during World War II. After his discharge he returned to Marietta and married Leatrice Nabers. Ken and Lea had one child, Richard. Ken and family, moved to Kenosha, Wisconsin in 1954 and he worked at American Motors until he retired at the age of 55. Upon retirement Ken moved back to Ozark and lived until his death. Ken loved to garden and till the land with his old Ford tractor. For many years he raised all types of vegetables for himself and others. He was an avid walker and could be seen on the roads with his dogs at all times of the year. He also spent endless hours sitting on his front porch watching the many hummingbirds that frequented his feeders.
We ask that you remember him for the way he lived, and for the profound impact his life had on the lives of those who had the pleasure of knowing him.
A memorial service will be held at Ozark Methodist Church, where Ken was a long-time member, on Sunday @ 3:00 p. m. with Bro. Caleb Holder officiating. Burial will be in the Ozark Cemetery.
Kenneth is survived by his son, Richard (Kathy); his grandchildren, April (Tim), Heather, Richard II (Rachel) and Daniel. He also leaves behind nine great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild on the way.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Purd E. Gardner and Gustava Hall Gardner.
Visitation will be at Ozark Methodist Church on Sunday from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Let us remember the past with gratitude, live the present with enthusiasm, and look forward to the future with confidence.
Ex pressions of sympathy may be sent to the family @www.watersfuneralservice.com
