Eugene Raymond Gardner

Eugene Gardner, age 76, of Cochrane, WI, formerly of Willard, WI died Thursday, January 25, 2018 at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN.   Eugene Raymond Gardner was born in Bancroft, IA the son of Raymond and Grace (McGregor) Gardner. He graduated from Sentral High School in Bancroft in 1959 and then attended Arizona State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Science and Social Studies. Gene went on to obtain his Master’s Degree in School Administration from Mankato State University in Minnesota in 1964. On June 12, 1965 he was united in marriage to Ann Rust, they later divorced but remained good friends. Gene has worked as a school principal in both Minnesota and Colorado, a truck driver; he worked as a social worker for social services in Clark County and at Sunburst Youth Home in Neillsville. He was the 4-H agent in Buffalo County and he worked part-time at the Danzinger Vineyards in Alma, WI. Most recently he was a Life Coach and Employment Specialist, helping those with disabilities obtain jobs, in Cochrane.   Gene was a very social person, who enjoyed visiting with people at the morning coffee clutch. He loved to ride his motorcycle, but most of all he loved his children and grandchildren.   He is survived by three children, Kristen (Rick) Okray of Stevens Point, WI, Mark (Mary) Gardner of Willard, WI and Sara (Jim) Ingold of Greenwood, WI, and eight grandchildren, Hayden Hinker, Morgan Hinker, Haley Gardner, Jacob Gardner, Lucas Ingold, Riley Gardner, Lauren Ingold and Caleb Gardner.   He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Virgil   A Celebration of Gene’s life will be held on Thursday, February 8, 2018 at the Danzinger Vineyards, S2015 Grapeview Ln, Alma, WI 54610 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., with a 6:00 p.m., service.   Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.   The Gesche Funeral Home is assisting Eugene’s family with funeral arrangements.