Charles “Chuck” Gardner of Glenwood Springs died Saturday, Jan. 11, 2003, after his truck rolled over in a snowstorm on Highway 82 near Buffalo Valley. He was 55.

He was born Dec. 22, 1947, in Harrisonburg, Va., to Charles and Madge Gardner. He was raised in North English, Iowa. Mr. Gardner attended Kemper Military School and went to college at Kentucky Western University in Bowling Green, Ky.

One semester short of graduation in 1968 he was drafted into the service. He was a highly decorated 194th Special Forces veteran of the Vietnam War.

After the war he worked in his family-owned shoe store business. He also worked as a pedorathist, fitting orthopedic appliances.

He later moved to Glenwood Springs because he loved the area and the beauty of the mountains.

Mr. Gardner especially enjoyed skiing, fishing and camping. He always had a smile and greeting for everyone, no matter what their social status or state in life. He could easily make anyone laugh.

Mr. Gardner often helped the homeless or less fortunate find shelter, food, clothing or transportation. Many people felt Chuck had a heart of gold.

He is survived by his wife, Marion Gardner of Glenwood Springs; by his parents, Charles and Madge Gardner of Richmond, Va.; by a brother, Frank Gardner; by a sister and brother-in-law, Peggy and Elden Vercande of North English, Iowa; and by nephews John Gardner and Bill Gardner, of Richmond, Va.

Visitation will be from 1-7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14, at Farnum-Holt Funeral Home, 405 W. 7th, Glenwood Springs.

A Rosary will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14, at Farnum-Holt Funeral Home

A funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 15, at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church in Glenwood Springs.

Burial will be in Richmond, Va.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army Glenwood Springs Chapter Homeless Shelter Fund.