Benjamin Arthur Gardner

Benjamin Arthur Gardner II, peacefully passed away July 8,2021, in the care of hospice surrounded by family and friends. He was a live long resident of Grand Haven, born to Ben and Marjorie Gardner on March 5,1955. He was preceded in death by his parents (and his niece Tammy Bates). He is survived by his sisters, Judy (Larry) Bates of Grand Haven, and Sally (Ed) Hendricks of FL. Ben, was known as "Benny" to his family and friends. He married Gail Paulson of Muskgeon, August 20, 1977 and raised two children. Kevin Benjamin Gardner, of Norton Shores, Shannon (Brian) Johnson of Bridgeton. He had five grandchildren, and four great -grandchildren, and Aniya, Micci, Mayven, and Marley would tell was the best "Poppy" ever! A special mention of his grandson-in-law and friend Mitchell (Micole) DeJohn. Ben started working for his father at a young age, while attending GHSH, as a Mason Tender, and worked with him in construction and masonry until he was employed by Shape Corporation, where he was a welder. He retired April 14, 2017. He would teach others everything he knew, if they wanted to learn, and made lifelong friends. For 26 years he was a member of the American Legion SAL Squadron #28. Not only was he the son of a veteran of Foreign War, he was the father of a veteran in Foreign War. He was a member of the Fruitport Conservation Club, and for many, many years he enjoyed hunting and fishing with Mark Easton. He also enjoyed camping, gardening, backyard fires, long rides, music, and whistling. Recently searching for "yooper lite rocks" in the Upper Peninsula. There will be no formal funeral service for Mr. Gardner. Prior to his death, he spent a month celebrating his life with loved ones at the Poppen Residence.