Thomas Olin Gardner

Thomas Olin Gardner, age 80, of Lawrenceville, Illinois, passed away on Friday, October 24, 2025 at Ascension St. Vincent in Evansville, Indiana. He was born on November 16, 1944, in Dowagiac, Michigan, the son of Olin S. Gardner and Donna Kensler Gardner. He married Emmalu McClaskey on April 13, 1971, and she preceded him in death on August 11, 2010.

Thomas joined the Navy in 1964 and retired from the Navy in 1986. While in the Navy, he served as HTCS (SW) as an E 8 Senior Chief. After the Navy, Thomas made aircraft parts at General Dynamics in California. Upon moving back to Lawrenceville, Thomas worked as in maintenance at Aperion Healthcare in Bridgeport, Illinois. Thomas was a member of the VFW and the American Legion. He enjoyed woodworking and never met a stranger. Thomas had a knack for keeping everyone on their toes with his quick wit and mischievous charm. His dog, Little Joe, brought him tremendous joy in his later years.

Preceding him in death were his parents and his wife Emmalu.

Survivors include his son, Jeffrey (Sally) Gardner of Lawrenceville, Illinois; his daughter, Jennifer (Bill Kasinger) Gardner of Lawrenceville, Illinois; his brother and best friend, Joseph Gardner of Lawrenceville; eight grandchildren: Damon Gardner, Stacy Kasinger, Willie Kasinger, Kaitlynn Gardner, Kolby Gardner, Eli Gardner, Riley Gerold, Peyton Gerold, and six great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be conducted on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at 12:00 PM at the Emmons-Macey & Steffey Funeral Home in Lawrenceville, Illinois. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 11:00 AM until 12:00 PM at the funeral home. Burial will be in the May Chapel Cemetery. Military rites will be conducted at the graveside by the VFW.