Charles R. Gardner

Charles (Charlie) Robert Gardner, 60, of Shelley, Idaho, passed away May 31, 2023, at his home. He was under the care of Solace Hospice

Charlie was born May 12, 1963, in Cortland, New York, to William Gardner Sr. and Mary Dunn Gardner. He grew up in Etna, New York, and graduated from Dryden High School.

He married Judi Virgadamo. They had two daughters, Cassitti and Samantha. They were later divorced.

He was a medic in the United States Army and served during Desert Storm.

He went on to meet Becky Best and became an integral and beloved member of her family was well.

Charles worked as a Machine Operator for Union Pacific Railroad for 27 years and he loved to ride his Harley.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and many others he helped and shared laughs with.

Charlie is survived by his daughter, Cassitti (Edwin, son Tobias) Ortega of New York City; daughter, Samantha (James, daughter Amelia) Leavitt of Nampa, Idaho; sister, Debbi (Ken) Blanchard of Salt Lake City, Utah; and a sister, Sherri (Mark) Casper of Ocala, Florida.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Gardner Sr, and Mary Gardner; and brother, William Gardner Jr.

Charlie will be buried in Pennsylvania with his parents and other family. No services will be held at this time. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.