Mark David Gardner

Mark David Gardner, 58, of Baxter, died Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2021, at MercyOne Newton Medical Center. A private family graveside service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions to the Salvation Army may be left at the Wallace Family Funeral Home and Crematory.

Mark, the son of Dale and Peggy (Hindman) Gardner, was born Sept. 30, 1962. He attended Newton High School and DMACC in Ottumwa. Mark then moved to Phoenix, Ariz., and worked at the Biltmore Hotel. Upon returning to Iowa he was the chef at Palmas Restaurant in Ames. Mark was united in marriage with Kay Taylor in 1986 and they were blessed with two children, Jennifer and Jonathan. Mark lived most of his life in Jasper County. He enjoyed fishing and camping.

Mark is survived by his father, Dale Gardner; two children, Jennifer (Shane) Gardner-Coats and Jonathan (Amy) Gardner; siblings, Rhonda (Randy) Bauer, Steve (Tina) Gardner and Douglas (Rose) Gardner; his wife, Patti Gardner; 17 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Peggy Gardner.