Another Classmate's Accomplishment!
Richard (Dick) Gardner
Memorial Park
(You can click on any of the pictures below for a larger
picture)
|
Dick and Kathleen moved to the Huntsville AL area |
Here is PPG Industries, Aerospace Division where Dick worked |
Dick and some of his fellow employees were working on establishing a company
recreation area when he died. On the first anniversary of his
death, Kathleen and their children were invited to a picnic and found that the
park was named in Dick's honor........
Below are pictures of the park
The following is a message from Kathleen
about the park:
Dick spear headed the design and development of the idea of having a park
for the employees to have a recreation area located behind the plant for the
enjoyment of the employees and their families He was very head strong
and was bound and determined to make this happen and make it a beautiful
place. He and others physically worked endless hours on this project until
its completion.
The first summer after his death, they invited me, my children and other
family members to the first annual picnic. At this event they surprised us
by naming the park "GARDNER PARK". I was overwhelmed and
became very emotional. (just like now) Anyway, the children (Kim, Doug and
Pam) and I are very proud of Dick and his determination to have a place for
families to relax and enjoy. We definitely need more or that--don't
we..........
The employees have their annual picnic at this location every summer. The
men (along with their beer) start barbecuing the night before and set up a
great picnic for everyone to enjoy. A caterer provides most of the food.
Various games including fishing contests for the children, bingo, dunking
booth, etc. and bunches of door prizes are some of the activities.
GARDNER PARK is open through out the year for the employees
to enjoy. The employees continue to expand and make improvements to enhance
the beauty of this lovely place. Come on down y'all and I'll take you on a
tour.
Just one more reason to be proud of our
classmates of the Class of 1953!
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