James B. Gardner, 68, of 812 Bolivar Drive, passed away Monday, September 14, 2015 at St. Vincent's Hospital in Erie.
Born February 18, 1947 in Bradford, he was the son of the late James and June (Gardner) Hand.
He attended Bradford Schools. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force on March 1, 1965 and served until he was honorably discharged July 14, 1967.
After his military service, he returned to Bradford. He worked for The Hollenbeck Funeral Chapel for a time and then began working as a truck driver. He drove for many companies in the area, including Halliburton, where he retired. After his retirement, he worked as a security guard for Zippo Manufacturing.
He was an active member of the Derrick City Volunteer Fire Department for many years. He also rescued and fostered animals for the McKean County SPCA.
He is survived by four children, Michael (Mary Alice) Ramsey, of Raleigh, NC, Lorianne (Seth) Riley, of Little Valley, NY, Veronica (Chris) Washy, of Gowanda, NY and Jennifer (Tony) Gardner, of Cherry Creek, NY; ten grandchildren and six great grandchildren and his longtime companion, Dorthy Henderson, with whom he resided for many years.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Friends are invited to attend a celebration of James' life at 1:00 PM, Sunday, October 4, 2015 at the Derrick City Volunteer Fire Department in Derrick City.
Memorial Contributions, if desired, can be made to the McKean County SPCA PO Box 113 Bradford, The Derrick City Volunteer Fire Department or a charity of the donor's choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc.
On line condolences may be made at www.hollenbeckcahill.com