Ralf Robert Gardner

Ralf Robert Gardner, 56, of Salem and formerly of Colorado Springs, CO, passed away on Monday, February 3, 2014. He had a heart of gold, was very much loved, and will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Preceding him in death was his stepfather, Lavern Lewno. His surviving family includes his wife, Brenda Lawson Gardner; daughter, Nikita Lawson and significant other, Sean Sisson; stepsons, Jamie Patrick and wife, Shannon, and Rickey Sutphin and wife, Jennifer; grandchildren, Brendan, A.C., Chloe, Carter, and Morgan on the way; mother, Franciska Lewno; father, Athel Gardner; siblings, Mike Gardner and wife, Pam, and J.R. Lewno and wife, Julie; Jenney Gordon and husband, Allan, Diane Shinger and husband, Joe, and Sabina Newland; and numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 7, 2014 at 11 a.m. at the Edgewood Holiness Church in Roanoke with the Rev. E.R. Woods officiating. The Gardner family is being served by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home and Crematory in Salem, 540-389-5441.