Robert Lyle Gardner, 73, went home to be with his Lord and Savior with family by his side, on April 15, 2014, at Hearthstone Assisted Living.

Lyle (Bob) was born in Bottineau, N.D., on July 1, 1940, to Arthur G. and Leota B. (Johnson) Gardner. He loved helping on the farm in the Turtle Mountains of North Dakota.

Lyle moved with his family to Post Falls in 1956. He attended Post Falls High School, and then joined the Marines in 1959. Lyle was stationed in Hawaii, was an M.P., and moonlighted as a lifeguard while there. He was proud of being a Marine and of serving his country. 

After being discharged in 1964, Lyle returned home to Post Falls. He worked at several jobs before going to work at Kaiser Trentwood as an overhead crane operator; he was considered one of the best.

Lyle enjoyed hunting and fishing with his father and brothers. He had a passion for goose hunting and cross country skiing, traveling, photography and reading. He was capable of doing so many things. Lyle had a zest for life, and was always there to help and comfort his family whenever needed.

When he was in his 60's, Lyle  was stricken with dementia. As in his life, he handled this with grace. Lyle will be missed, but our Lord is rejoicing. Psalm 116:15, "Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints."

Lyle was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Gardner and Leota Bippes. He is survived by his brothers: Kenneth (Dorthey) Gardner of Unionville, Va., Dennis (Carol) Gardner of Rathdrum, Idaho, Clayton (Carolyn) Gardner of Lillian, Ala., Lester (Marilyn) Gardner of Post Falls, Idaho; sisters: Laura (Jim) Blankenship of Covington, Wash., and Betty (Rod) Borley of Post Falls, Idaho; uncle, Donald Johnson of Post Falls, Idaho; and numerous nephews and nieces.

Lyle's family would like to thank Hearthstone Assisted Living and Hospice of North Idaho for their kind and loving care.

There will be a graveside service only, at 1 p.m., Thursday, April 24, at Evergreen Cemetery, Post Falls, Idaho. Please view and sign Lyle’s guest registry at www.englishfuneralchapel.com