Harold Griffith Gardner, 94, of Sarasota, FL, passed away peacefully on March 7. Harold was born in Tampico, IL, to Griffith and Mary A. Gardner (Hopkins) on November 13, 1920. He is survived by his loving wife of seventy-three years, Wilma K. Gardner (McClelland), son Gary of Indianapolis, IN, and daughter Barbara Goff (Edward) of Bradenton, FL, five grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.  He was predeceased by his sister, Dorothy, and brother, David.

Harold served as a supply officer in the Army Medical Corps during WWII. After the war, he joined his uncle Burdine H. Gardner in Indianapolis, IN, where he bought B.H. Gardner Co. Inc. and served as president and CEO until his retirement in 1985. 

Active in the National Association of Flour Distributors, he served as president for two years and chairman of the board for thirteen years.  He was the first recipient of the Tanner Award for outstanding service. 

In 1952, Harold joined Broadway Methodist Church and Aldergate Sunday School, where he and Wilma were active for many years. Private family services will be held at a later date. Memorial contribution may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.