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Clarence GARDNER Obituary
GARDNER, Clarence E. 'Butch'
Butch was born in 1946 in Harrisburg, PA but grew up in Rialto, CA. He attended San Bernardino Valley College and the University of CA at Pomona. Following his move to Sacramento he married Sharon, his wife of 45 years. They had a son Edward in 1968. Butch is also survived by his brother-in-law William Hurley. Butch retired after 32 years at McClellan AFB as Instrument and Electro Optics Night Vision Repair Division Chief. During that time he received multiple Manager of the Year and Civilian All Star Awards as well as the USAF Civilian Meritorious Service Award. He was also a Certified Industrial Engineer. After retirement he served as a consultant for GEC Marconi Electronics, Army Missile Command and the County of Sacramento. Other than family, the love of his life centered around the classic/hot rod car hobby. Since his first car, a 56 Ford Ranch Wagon, at age 17 - he was hooked. He started his own business, Artesia Street Rod Promotions and was active in facilitation automotive events. He owned and promoted his own car show in Placerville for 15 years. He has been building and showing hot rods and customs since 1963 with four being featured in national magazines. Butch was the host of the Hot August Nights 'Cruise of Champions' for many years. More recently was the Swap Meet Manager under the ownership of Bob and Vivian Davies. He began a long association with the Sacramento Autorama when he started showing his cars in 1973 and went on to become a professional show judge. In 1999, he became Show Director and Floor Manager for the Autorama and the Grand National Roadster Show under Dan Cyr Ent. He was proud to become a member of the Autorama Legends Society and served as Society Chairmen hosting the event for several years. He was very happy to return to the Autorama in 2012 as the venue manager for the 'Clubhouse' under John Buck Ent. He was really looking forward to participating again in 2013. Butch was extremely proud to be a Life Member in the Capitol Auto Club Thunderbolts. He joined the club in 1974 and it has been like a second family ever since. He was President seven times and earned several awards. He was very happy when his son joined in 2005. He was currently on the Board of Directors for the Assoc. of Ca. Car Clubs, working to protect the car hobby through open communication with our elected officials. He was looking forward to several events in the coming year. Butch has been the host of the 'Cruisin' Garage' radio show on AM 950 KAHI since 2001. He also kept busy as a Specialty Vehicle Appraiser. Over the years he has been an automotive columnist for the Sacto Bee and the Placerville Mountain Democrat. It has been said that there is a large hot rod club in the sky. Well, they just got a strong member. Krooze Safe. A Funeral Service will be held on Monday December 10, 2012 at 2pm at Mount Vernon Memorial Park 8201 Greenback Lane Fair Oaks, Ca 95628. Reception to follow. For more information please visit www.mountvernonmemorial.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Clarence GARDNER
May 21, 2013
I am so sorry to hear that Butch has passed, was a complete surprise when I was told, so sorry Sharon Butch was my friend, I feel a great loss..
Sincerely Craig Conlee
January 1, 2013
Sharon and Ed, Ron & I just learned yesterday of Butch's passing. There are no words to express the sadness we feel. As so many have already said, Butch was just larger than life. He was such a wonderful, kind and generous friend. He never failed to make us all laugh and feel better. No matter where we went Butch always knew so many people who knew him and were happy to see him. He was amazing.
He will be loved and missed by us and so many others whose lifes he touched.
We are so very sorry for your devastating lose.
We send love to you and Eddie,
Ron and Evelyn Braly & family
Stilwell, OK
John & Denise Wilson
December 28, 2012
Butch!From the time I met you at McClellan until the time I left, you always managed to "shock" me. This shock everyone could have done without.
So sorry to hear about Butch. We would have attended the service but we were out of town. Our thoughts are with the family. We still can't believe this.
Dave Maudsley
December 14, 2012
I was saddened to hear of Butch's passing; worked with him for many years, I have many wonderful memories of Butch. Fun guy, he will be missed, God Bless and comfort you Sharon in your time of sorrow.
Carmine DeCicco
December 14, 2012
Sharon I am so sorry about your loss. I often enjoyed listening to Butch on KAHI. He had many accomplishments in his life. Take care of youself and family.
Carmine DeCicco (Auburn CA.)
December 13, 2012
I first met Butch when he was working with Dan Cyr GNRS and Sac Autorama.
One of the nicest guys you'd ever want to meet.
He helped me get set up in just the "right" spots at these events.
A true gear head always has his hands under the hood...Butch was one of us and he will be missed...
Jeff Sutton
Jokers Bay Area
Sweet & Simple
Raymond & Charlotte Smith "SMITTY"
December 13, 2012
Sharon & Ed Thank you for letting me speak and to entertain his guests.
Butch brought out the best in me and I'm happy to know that he had faith and confidence in me to let me assist him on various events and encourage me to take over when he did not want to do it anymore. I valued his friendship and I'm know he valued mine. We will miss him deeply. I often said when I grow up I want to be like Butch, little did I know he already knew it.
Aloha Oui My Friend
December 11, 2012
My heart aches....I looked at the photos and could see Uncle Pud in his smile. RIP my dear cousin.
Marion and Barry Bobb
Don McKaughan
December 10, 2012
I am very sorry to hear that Butch has passed. He will be greatly missed by not only his family but his friends.
mike zenft
December 10, 2012
High school and hot rod buds
December 10, 2012
I am so sorry to hear about Butch passing.He was my boss in Bld 242 in McClelland AFB.My prayers go out to his family. Helene Mulligan (Antelope, CA)
December 9, 2012
Sharon and Eddie
Laura and I pray that God's hand will guide through these sad and troubling times. I know that you know how long Butch and I have been friends, but I really doubt anyone knows how deep my feelings go about our friendship. Over the years there are many stories that I will carry through my life about Butch and I. One of my favorites was when Butch and I were at a Thunderbolts meeting and had a disagreement over something that is so unimportant now that I don't remember it. Butch rode with me to the meeting that night. We were so mad, and hardheaded, that we both quit the club on the spot. We were both so determined to get out of the clubhouse door before the other that we met in the door and were jammed there. We managed to get loose and out the door and I jumped in my car and left, forgetting that I left Butch there with no ride home. Being the true friends that we were we both told this story over the years and laughed every time. True friends are never really mad at each other, and that little incident taught me that lesson. Thanks Butch. With all my heart and all my love I'll see you again I am sure
Larry and Laura Martin, Citrus Hieghts, CA
December 9, 2012
So many will miss that smile of Butch's.
So many of us will miss working on Antique Auto events with him. I pray for you Butch and your family. Fondly, Mary Ramsey
Bob & Maria Slatter
December 9, 2012
Dear Butch, I don't know if the satellite is up and running in Heaven but, I know you are reading all your mail. I can only say in the 45 years I've known you; it has been a pleasure to have met you; your caring friendship and fantastic personality will be missed for sure! Every time I see a Classic Car, your name will be remembered as a Classic Car Guy. Until I see you again, we love you always, “Happy Trails to you……….” You friends always Bob and Maria Slatter.
Gerry Sevigny
December 9, 2012
i live in San Diego for the past 6 years but still kept up with Butch with his activities and great knowledge of our sports. To say he will be missed is a understatement. He was a GREAT MAN and my thoughts and prayers go to his family.
December 9, 2012
The People
We Love Live On
In Our Hearts
Sharon and Ed
It takes a long time
to get used to
the loss of someone we love.
But it's important
to remember
that when people die,
they leave
something very special behind--
They leave us memories
of many things
they said and did.
And as long as we have
those memories,
the people we love
will live on
in our hearts and minds.
Our deepest sympathy,
Jimmy and Colette Stewart, Auburn, California
When we heard of your passing we knew God was ready for you.
Butch will truly be missed my us.
He was a wonderful man and friend.
December 9, 2012
Only spent time with you in Little League but it was great times. Sharon and Ed our thoughts & prayers are with you both. Ted and Rita Baur
December 9, 2012
Sharon and family,
Such a shock to hear that Butch is no longer with us. He was a genuine leader in many parts of his life and the Sac region street rod scene will feel the loss of such a passionate car man. Butch was truly a positive and memorable influence for Tim and I and he always had time for Tim's many car questions. His picture shows the great, welcoming smile that ALL will remember. So sorry for your loss. Tim and Chris Pair - Folsom
Sue with Plant Maintenance coworkers
Susan Lohrey Dunn
December 9, 2012
Gary Gloor
December 8, 2012
Butch, You caught me off guard on this one. You will be missed by a wide variety of people whose paths you crossed in a busy funfilled lifetime. Thanks for the laughs and funtimes we had together. Now your Kroozing Safe Forever!
Gary and Sue Gloor
December 8, 2012
Butch, You caught me off guard on this one! You will be missed by large vareity of people whose paths you crossed in your busy funfilled lifetime. Thanks for all the laughs and goodtimes we had together.
Jack Banville
December 8, 2012
I was shocked to read of Butch's death. Much too young for someone so involved with his passions to die in his 60s.
I worked with Butch. He was my boss in the late 80s in building 242. I respected him.
I left McClellan in 1990. Twelve years later I entered a vehicle in the Autorama and Butch personally guided me to a perfect spot.
Butch was a true original.
December 8, 2012
Sharon and Ed,
What a Blessing to have known Butch during his life. Such a busy guy but ALWAYS had time for anyone. Cidy and I are here for you both. God Bless you both and Butch. Love Dave and Cidy Brazelton
December 8, 2012
Sharon and Ed, You know how this has hit us. It was great being a part of Butch's life both car wise and personal. I will miss him walking through the bushes.
Love,
Linda & Mike Clougher
Jim & Bonnie Chapman
December 8, 2012
Sharon we are so very sorry to hear of your loss. Jim will miss the Thursday morning chat sessions at the Train Station.
With our sympathy,
Tass
December 8, 2012
Butch: God speed you
Betty Holden
December 7, 2012
Sharon and Ed – I am so sorry for your loss. Butch was absolutely one of a kind and bigger than life. I can just imagine what he is organizing now! May your countless memories bring back the good times, make you laugh and give you comfort. Take care, and please know that I am thinking of you.
Debbie & Brent Mitchell
December 7, 2012
Words are inadequate. We'll miss you always, Butch, and remember all of the great times, travels to lots of races and working together on Hangtown Cruisin Assn. for many years. Our hearts & love go out to you, Sharon and Ed. There will never be another Butch.
Ray Hazelwood
December 7, 2012
Sharon and Ed you know how sorry we are for your loss and all of our loss too. I am sure we will never ever meet another like him. You already know our families thoughts and prays are with you and your family.
Hooman Sadeghi And family (Chubby's Diner)
December 7, 2012
Sharon and Ed, we are so sorry for your loss. Butch was a great man and a fantastic friend. You have our deepest sympathies. He always went out of his way to help me and my family. He will be always in our thoughts and heart.
Sacto Legends 2006
December 7, 2012
Sharon and Ed, we want to express our heartfelt sympathy and condolences. Butch was a long time friend (Lodi Street Rod Nats 1973) and always had a smile. The Sacramento car hobby scene has lost a devoted member. Sandra, Greg, Jenny and I will always remember how Butch went out of his way to help us with the Yogurt Palace cruise nights. Krooze Safe my friend.
Sandra, Greg, Jenny and Jim Handy (Folsom,CA)
Sandy Hackett
December 7, 2012
Sorry to hear that Butch has left us. It was an honor to have known him and worked with him at McClellan AFB. My prayers go out to his family..
Jim Hawthorne
December 7, 2012
Sharon and Ed, I am so very sorry for your loss and please know that my love and support remain here for you.
Butch, old buddy, I was proud to be on that lengthly list of people you considered friends. It was a great ride and I am sure that you will keep things organized up there too!
John Timblin
December 7, 2012
It's a sad day when you hear about losing a friend such as Butch. As well as being a friend, Butch was a co-worker and fellow bowler (from way back). Butch had a way about him and he will be sadly missed. My condolences to his family.
Lydia Henry
December 7, 2012
Butch was a great person to know! I enjoyed working with him in Bldg 242.
Lydia Henry
Ron & Angela Sullivan
December 7, 2012
We always enjoyed our friendship with Butch and Sharon. Butch was a friend, neighbor and co-worker. We maintained our friendship even though Angela and I moved from CA over 30 years ago. Butch will be missed here in FL.
Ron & Angela Sullivan
December 7, 2012
We always enjoyed Butch and Sharon's friendship. Butch was a friend, neighbor and co-worker. We maintained contact and our friendship even though we left CA over 30 years ago. He will be missed in FL.
Rex & Sue Roden
December 7, 2012
Butch was a giant of a man in hot rod community and will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you Sharon & Ed, please let me know if I can be of help to you and your family.
Darold & Lynn Kohout
December 6, 2012
Butch.....and I know you can hear me....it was an honor to be your friend and a part of your life. Your little boy was down here today, but I will have to ask Sharon about the 'chicken' costume incident. You will be missed my friend. Godspeed...Clarence, and behave up there.
December 6, 2012
Sharon and Ed, So Sorry for your loss. Butch was a great man to work for. Excellence and success at work was always his goal. Nothing short of that. you are in our prayers
Jack and Bonnie De Vriend
December 6, 2012
Sharon and Ed, So Sorry for your loss. Butch was a great man to work for. Excellence and success at work was always his goal. Nothing short of that. you are in our prayers
Kenny Palmer
December 5, 2012
Apparently Kryptonite exists in Shingle Springs. No other explanation to losing Superman so soon. After almost 40 years of memories, it's the unsaid things that hurt. Express your love to your friends & family before they are gone. RIP my friend. All our love & support to Sharon & Eddie & The Club.
Love, Kenny & Sue Palmer
John and Sue Mincks
December 5, 2012
Sharon and Ed, I was very sorry to hear about Butch. You have my deepest sympathies. Just know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
John and Sue Mincks
Gary & Sandy Haltom
December 5, 2012
Sharon and Ed, I am still trying to absorb this. I have so many great memories of Butch and great times, laughs and his kindness and generousity to everyone..I love the photo of him. it is perfect, big smile having fun..I am so, so sorry he was taken away from you both so soon. Please know my heart goes out to you both with all our condolences....
Gary & Sandy Haltom
Meridian, Idaho
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