Our beloved husband, father and grandfather returned home to Heavenly Father on Nov. 13, 2015, after a long battle with Parkinson's disease. David was born July 14, 1947, in Michigan City, Indiana, and was immediately adopted by his wonderful parents, George Michael Gardiner and Thelma Rohama Lester.
After high school David joined the military and served during the Viet Nam war. He received much training in various employment endeavors. He was known as "Mr. Fix It." He drove semi trucks for many years and really enjoyed traveling all over the country.
David was devoted and strong in his faith and loved serving in his church callings as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He especially loved the scouting program and was adamant about how important being prepared was. He loved camping and teaching survival skills.
He was a devoted husband and father, and his family always came first. His friends were all very important to him, and he was blessed to have many. He will be missed.
David is preceded in death by his previous wife Gai Lynette Walmsley and his son George. He is survived by his present wife Norma Lee Hammett; his sons Eric and Richard; his daughters LaTanya, Michelle and Andrea; grandchildren Jeffrey, Jennifer, Catherine, Windy, Sean, Daniel, Caleb, Asher, Josie and Oliver.
Graveside services will be held Tuesday, Nov. 17, at 11 a.m., at Larkin Sunset Lawn cemetery, 2350 East 1300 South. In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Parkinson's Foundation.
