David Gardner

David Alan Gardner, 64, Clarks Summit, died Sunday, June 23, 2013, doing what he loved best, riding his motorcycle. He suffered fatal injuries when his motorcycle was struck by a deer. He was transported to Geisinger Wyoming Valley.

Born November 13, 1948, in Ridgway, PA, he was the son of Thelma (Bennett) Gardner, Clarks Summit and the late Charles John Gardner.

He was a 1966 graduate of Dunmore High School. He honorably served his country in the U S Army during the Vietnam War as a helicopter mechanic. He was a heavy equipment operator and a proud member of International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 542.

He had a passion for his motorcycles and especially enjoyed riding with his canine best friend, Charles, seated proudly in his very own sidecar. He made an annual pilgrimage with friends to visit the Vietnam Memorial Wall, Washington, DC. Dave's spirit will live in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Also surviving are two daughters: Greta Luong and husband Anthony, Dickson City, Jennifer Toomey and companion Paul Aigeldinger, Blakely, three sisters: his twin, Diane Zeiss and husband, Kirk, Clarks Summit, Rev. Nancy Shute and husband Richard, Brockway, Mary Ellen Galdieri and companion George Harris, Scranton, several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive relatives and friends Friday from 4-7 pm at the Jennings-Calvey Funeral and Cremation Services, Inc., 111 Colburn Ave., Clarks Summit. A celebration of Dave's life will be 7 pm at the funeral home with services by Rev. Judy Adams, pastor of Clarks Summit Methodist Church. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Fund, 2600 Virginia Ave., NW, Suite 104, Washington, DC 20037 or Griffin Pond Animal Shelter, 967 Griffin Pond Road, Clarks Summit, PA 18411.