Farmingdale-Dennis M. Gardner passed away on June 24, 2024. Dennis was born on September 10, 1942, to Leslie (Bill) Rice Gardner and Arlene Choate Gardner at his grandmother's (Nany) house.

Dennis attended school in Richmond, graduating in 1961. He studied Building Construction at SMVTI. Dennis excelled in school and athletics in high school. He also worked at Dore's Mobil Station and Peterson's Farm in Richmond, Freeport Shoe, and Rock Oven Restaurant on Bailey Island. The summer of 1954 began a new era in the lives of the Gardner clan. A piece of land was purchased at Bailey Island. Dennis, his father, brothers, and the rest of the clan built WELOVIT, the family's beloved camp, which Dennis and his family enjoyed for many wonderful years.

Dennis worked for the Maine Department of Transportation for thirty-five years. After his retirement, he consulted at TYLIN International for eleven years.

Dennis's love for his family was unwavering. On May 23, 1964, he married his high school sweetheart, Elaine F. Poland. Together, they built a home in Farmingdale and raised their two children, Denise (Dee) and David. Their children were their pride and joy, and they never missed any of their activities. They spent thirty beautiful years together before Elaine's passing in 1994.

Dennis enjoyed camping with family and friends—state parks were his family's favorites. He actively coached his son's Little League team, middle school softball, and high school girls' basketball. He also enjoyed traveling with his family, especially his trips to Disney with his four grandsons.

Dennis is survived by his daughter, Denise (Dee), son, David, and daughter-in-law, Christina, and his grandsons, Austin, Jordan, Colby, and Brady. His brothers and their wives, Brian and Paula, and Peter and Cora, his late wife, Elaine’s sister and brother-in-law, Jane and Mossie Sullivan, and nieces and nephews. And his loving partner, Laurie Saunders.

Dennis was not just a family man, but also an active member of the community. He served as the past Master of Richmond Lodge No. 63, a former member of Village Lodge in Bowdoinham, and a member of Kennebec Lodge in Hallowell. His dedication to these organizations is a testament to his selflessness and commitment to community service.

Dennis was a generous and kind person. If you wish to honor Dennis, please give to the Gardner Family Scholarship, a scholarship he helped to create at the University of Maine Foundation to honor his children and wife, Elaine’s teaching profession. You may give online at umainefoundation.org or make your check payable to the University of Maine Foundation and mail it to the University of Maine Foundation, Two Alumni Place, Orono, ME 04469-5792. Note Gardner Family Scholarship in the memo line.

A celebration of his life will be held later this summer.

In memory of Dennis, do something kind for someone.

Arrangements are under the care of Kincer Funeral Home 130 Pleasant St. Richmond, Me 04357