Samuel "Sam" Dale Gardner

Samuel “Sam” Dale Gardner, 70, of Royal Center passed away at his residence on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.

He was born in Peru, Indiana on May 16, 1955 to the late Dale Leon and Dorothea Harriet (Hollenback) Gardner. Sam married Tracey “Jean” Deeter and they shared 37 loving years of marriage before his passing.

Sam worked as a heavy equipment operator. In his free time, he enjoyed racing anything with wheels, but was especially drawn to race car driving. Sam participated in several demolition derbies and was often found doing one of his favorite hobbies – working on cars. Most of all, Sam loved spending time with his kids and grandkids. He was affectionately known as “Papaw Sam” to many.

In addition to his wife, Jean, Sam is survived by his children; Ang (Dwight) Holland of Miami, Samuel (Kim) Gardner Jr. of Peru, Paul Burke of Royal Center, Curtis Burke of Royal Center, Lawrence Johnson of Clovis, New Mexico, Reuben Johnson of Peru, grandchildren; Cathy Mendez, Faith Blount, Derek Zeider, Chris Burke, Selena Shafer, Angel Holland, Jolee Holland, Trey Holland, Arianna Holland, great grandchildren; Isabella, Garrett, Gabby, Arthur, Jade, and one on the way. Sam is also survived by special family members Michelle Siegfred, Cathy McDougle, Loretta Simpson, a niece, Dotty Hanson of Spokane, Washington and special friend, Teresa Simpson.

He is preceded in death by his parents, daughter, Sherry Zeider, and siblings; Paul Gardner, J.T. Gardner, Jerry Gardner, and Peggy Hanson.

Visitation will be held from 2pm to 6pm on Sunday, May 3, 2026 at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home, 105 West Third Street, Peru.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.

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