Raymond H. Gardner, age 85, joined his Heavenly Father on Friday, September 22, 2018. He was born September 16, 1933 in San Jose, Calif. to William Raymond and Nancy Gardner.

Raymond was in College of the Sequoias in Visalia, Calif. when the Korean War started and he joined the Army. After completing his service, he transferred to Fresno State College, Fresno, Calif., where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture. After 30 years of employment with the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture (Farmers Home Administration), he retired as District Director for the Southern California area.

In 1993, he and Vernette moved to Mohave Valley, Ariz. He was one of the founders of the Mohave Valley United Methodist Church where he was an active member. He enjoyed camping with the Mohave Coyotes Good Sam Club. He loved NASCAR and old cars and went to many car shows.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, William Travis Gardner.

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Vernette of Mohave Valley; son, Steven (Wendy) of Oregon; daughters, Kathleen (Dexter) Sutherland of Florida and Suzanne (Darren) of Oregon; step-son, David Frank of Fort Mohave, Ariz; 20 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service, officiated by Pastor Gene Stouffer, will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 27, 2018 at Mohave Valley United Methodist Church, refreshments following.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the church in his name. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Desert Lawn Cemetery, 9250 S. Ranchero Lane, Mohave Valley, Ariz.