Gregory P. Gardner

Gregory P. Gardner age 65 of Bloomington. Greg proudly served the Twin Cities area for fifty years through his family concrete business, first with his father and later with his son. He is preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Wynette and survived by his wife, Nancy; children, Jesse (Angela) Gardner, Melanie (Jason) Olson; grandchildren, Evan, Britta, Jonas; siblings, Michael Gardner, Becky Coates along with many nieces and nephews.

Greg was born and raised in Bloomington and was a graduate of Kennedy High School. When he was 16, he began working in his family’s concrete business where he perfected his skills and eventually became co-owner with his father, Louis. He worked side by side with his brother and uncle and later taught his son everything he knew. When Greg wasn’t pouring driveways, sidewalks and patios, he enjoyed working on cars, specifically Opals and 57 Chevys.

When he was 19 his best friend set him up on a blind date. It wasn’t long before Greg and Nancy were married and they welcomed their son, Jesse, into their lives. Seven years later their daughter, Melanie, was born. On weekends, Greg made time for his family by taking them camping and fishing. He also took an interest in roller skating as a way to entertain Melanie while Nancy was working. He continued to skate for many years until he was 61, whenever he felt healthy enough to show off his moves.

Much of Greg’s adult life was spent fighting health issues, however, no matter what he was dealing with, he stayed positive and always managed to work through it. Even in the most difficult times he always took great pleasure in talking to the people around him and sharing stories. He had a boisterous laugh and would pound on the table whenever he felt something was especially funny. Greg loved animals almost as much as he loved people, but he loved his Yorkies (Kuddles and more recently, Sophie) most of all.

Greg was a friend to all and lived his life believing you should treat others as you would want to be treated.

A special thank you to the wonderful medical staff at the U of MN for their many years of care.