Traverse City - Robert C. Gardner, 93, of Traverse City and formerly of Grand Rapids passed away February 15, 2013 at the Grand Traverse Pavilions Rehab Unit with his daughter Tracy by his side.

Robert was born on February 3, 1920 in Grand Rapids to the late Lorne J. and Ada (Holmes) Gardner.

On September 13, 1940 Bob married Virginia R. Meyer who preceded him in death in 2002.

Bob served our country honorably from 1942 to 1946 as a member of the United States Army in WWII.

Bob was an engineer for 35 years at Lear Sieglar Inc, which is now known as Smith Industries.

In his spare time he enjoyed golfing. He had two hole-in-ones, the second when he was 84. He and Virginia loved vacationing in Florida, and spent several winters there following his retirement. Bob also enjoyed playing bridge with the "couples gang". Throughout his life, he enjoyed attending his grandchildren's sporting events. He was an excellent provider for his family. He was an outstanding husband, father and grandfather and was known as "Grandpa" by those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Bob is survived by his daughter Tracy (Fred) Truschke of Traverse City, Janet (Tom) K. Locke of St. Anne, Il, and son Jack Gardner of Empire, grandchildren Ryan Truschke, Lauren Truschke, Randy (Tara) Welch, and Megan Fieleke, and five great grandchildren.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, wife, siblings, Annie Simpson, Lorne Garnder, and William Gardner, and grandson John Locke.

The funeral will be held on Tuesday, February 19, 2013 at 5:00pm with visitation beginning one hour prior at the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home.

Bob and Virginia will be laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery at Oakwood in Grand Rapids at a later date.