Mr. Harvey B. Gardner Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

****NOTE: Visitation & Funeral Service Time and Location Listed Harvey “H.B.” Gardner peacefully departed this life on Monday, December 17, 2018. He was born on June 16, 1932 the son of Zorado Fitzpatrick in Okolona, Mississippi. Later moving to Kalamazoo, Michigan at the age of nine, and residing here for 75 years. H.B. accepted Jesus Christ at an early age and served the Lord until he was no longer physically able. He served with commitment and dedication on the Usher, Transportation, and Kitchen ministries. He also taught golf classes to the youth. He attended Kalamazoo Central High School where he was a “stand out” all around athlete - participating in football, basketball, and track. H.B. was a trailblazer, being the only African American player on two basketball state championship teams. After high school he enlisted in the Army and served our country for several years - receiving an honorable discharge. H.B. was a plumber by trade. He worked and retired from the State of Michigan as a mechanical inspector. H.B. united in marriage on December 1, 1952 to Betty Gardner (Lancaster). To this union four children were born. He continued his love of sports throughout his adult life - participating in softball, bowling and golf leagues. H.B. had a friendly and outgoing personality - it could be said that he never met a stranger. He used this gift to be a witness for Christ, inviting people to church whether in Kalamazoo, Michigan or Jackson, Tennessee. He would use his 3 conversation starters: “What church do you attend?” “Where do you go to school?” (depending on the age) and “Who are your folks?” He was preceded in death by his mother Zorado Fitzpatrick, two brothers Larry (L.C.) Gardner, and Sam Fitzpatrick, grandson Derek Wheeler and granddaughter Tyesha Gardner. He leaves to cherish his memory “the love of his life” his wife, Betty of 66 year; four children, Donald Gardner of Grand Rapids, MI; Debra Johnson, Curtis (Elaine) Gardner, Sheila (David) Gilland and special grandson Ajamian Gardner, all of Kalamazoo, MI; brother George (Betty) Fitzpatrick and sister, Kay Reason, both of Kalamazoo, MI; eight grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and six great-great grandchildren. Also, four special sister-in-laws, Leora Jackson of Pomona, CA; Rebecca Taylor of Chattanooga, TN; Evelyn Smith of Nashville, TN; Jacquelyn Marshall of Jackson, TN; and special brother-in-law, Larry Marshall of Jackson, TN; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Mr. Harvey B. Gardner

June 16, 1932 - December 17, 2018