Alfred Hiram "Fritz" Gardner

January 14, 1933 - December 23, 2021

Alfred Hiram “Fritz” Gardner of Arizona City died on December 23, 2021. Fritz was born January 14,1933 in Grantsburg WI. His parents were Irene Elisabeth Gardner Napp and Hiram A Hanson. Fritz grew up on a farm and was an avid hunter, fisherman and outdoor explorer. His family moved from Amery, Wi to St Cloud, MN in his junior year where he participated in football, basketball and track. He attended St Cloud Teachers College where he met his wife, Pearl Berdetta “Deb” Erickson. They were married on June 12,1954 until his wife of 63 years predeceased him.

Fritz was an insurance agent for 28 years and won many sales awards. He along with his family were able to travel to several different countries and many parts of the USA. Upon taking early retirement, he and Deb took a three month trip to Alaska fulfilling one of their dreams.

In 1984 his family moved to Arizona City and in 1988 had their own insurance agency until 1999.

Fritz has always been active in his church, serving as deacon and/or church council president. In 1985, Fritz served as Chairman of the Development Committee for Central Lutheran Church and later as President of the church council for 6 years. He also served on the ELCA Synod Outreach Program.

He always said, “Life has been good and when the time comes to leave this earthly life, he knows life with his Lord Jesus will be even better.”

He is survived by this daughter, Debora and son-in-law, Jeffrey Pehlke. His daughter, Pamela Gardner. His granddaughter Jessica and Mitchell Erschen and great-grandsons Zachary and Maxton.

Celebration of Life service will be February 9 at 4:30pm at Central Lutheran Church in Arizona City. Officiating will be Pastor Douglas Dill. Following the service his ashes will be placed in the Church Memorial Garden. Fellowship will follow.

Memorial gifts may be made to the Central Lutheran Church Building Fund.