Mr. Robert Elmer Gardner, age 99 of Cave Spring, Georgia, passed away on Sunday, January 10, 2021. He was born on May 3, 1921 in Rochester, New York.

Bob graduated from Notre Dame University in 1944. After graduation, Bob served in the Army during WWII. Following his time in the military, Bob spent most of his career at Bell Aircraft. In 1946 Bob married the love of his life, Mary Josephine. They had 8 children and were married 63 years. Bob was eagerly awaiting their reunion in heaven.

Mr. Gardner is survived by his daughters, Carol Binger, Marcy Johnson, and Nancy Gardner, his sons, Robert Gardner, Allen Gardner, and David Gardner; and sister, Ann Smith. Seventeen grand-children and 21 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews also survive.

Bob, Papa or Grandpa as so many knew him, was diligent in keeping informed on all his children's, grandchildren and great-grandchildren's whereabouts, goals, accomplishments, and life adventures. At any gathering you could often see him deep in conversation with one of his grandchildren with true interest. He was truly proud of his family and was in turn, treasured by them.  He was honored on Fox News on his 99 ^th birthday. He often commented on the incredible blessing his family was to him and he deeply valued the yearly Family Reunions that have become a time-honored tradition for more than 40 years.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Josephine, sister, Jean Root, daughters, Mary Elizabeth Gardner and Josephine Anne Waldrop, and his parents, Allen Hammond Gardner and Lillian Gertrude (Harmor) Gardner.

In keeping with Mr. Gardner's wishes he was cremated.  A private memorial service will be held by his family at a later time.

The family has respectfully requested that flowers be omitted; however, memorial contributions may be made to: The Samaritan House, 302 Wissahickon Avenue, Cedartown, GA 30125.

Messages of condolences can be made to the family by visiting our website and signing the online guestbook at gammagefh.com.

The Olin L. Gammage and Sons Funeral Home is handling the arrangements for Mr. Robert Elmer Gardner.