Jon Anthony "Tony" Gardner, 68, Phoenix, AZ (formerly of Hope)

Jon Anthony "Tony" Gardner, 68, of Phoenix, Arizona, born May 30, 1957, passed away peacefully, on August 19, 2025.

Tony was a graduate of Hauser Jr-Sr High School, class of 1975. He worked as a professional house painter most of his life and was well known for his love of music and deep devotion to his family and friends. He brought happiness, laughter, and warmth to all who knew him. Tony enjoyed traveling, was a collector of antique bottles, which he usually found along rivers, loved to swim and just being outdoors in nature. Some little-known facts about Tony are that he completed the mile swim at scout camp, was a life guard at the public beach at Schaefer Lake in Hope, IN and was also on the Jennings County's swim team. He loved water!

He also had a passion for orange Danish rolls, Coca-Cola's, and Breyer's ice cream; his favorite flavor was vanilla bean.

He is survived by his mother Carol Sue Gardner of Hope, IN, longtime partner Teena (Rogers) Wellman of Phoenix, AZ, brother Rick Gardner (Vicki) of Hope, IN, sisters Cindy McIntyre of Hope, IN, Susan Lashley (Kevin) of Clearwater, MN, and Tracy Wallace (Mike) of Flat Rock, IN. Also surviving are Teena's children Greg Wellman, Erin Wellman, grand-children Kaden Wellman, Jason Hitchcock, and Katie Wellman all of Phoenix, AZ, and his uncle Robert Elliott of Seymour, IN, seven nieces and nephews and ten great-nieces and great-nephews that will miss him dearly. Tony had a special connection with Kaden and helped nurture him throughout his life. One of Tony's most special moments was being able to attend Kaden's high school graduation this past May.

In addition to the close family members that Tony loved and cared about, it was important to him to stay connected with friends and classmates.

He was preceded in death by his birth father James Ledford and his adopted father Richard M. "Dick" Gardner, and brother-in-law, Tony McIntyre.

Tony's legacy is woven through the lives of all who knew him, carried on in the echoes of laughter at family gatherings, the camaraderie of shared adventures, and the many stories retold by those who cherished his friendship. His gentle spirit, unwavering kindness, and generous heart left an indelible mark that will linger for generations. Whether it was a spontaneous road trip, a sunlit afternoon by the water, or a simple moment spent savoring his favorite treats, Tony reminded everyone of the beauty found in everyday joys.

A celebration of Tony's life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to share memories, music, and moments that reflect the vibrant and caring person he was. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Tony by embracing the outdoors, sharing laughter with loved ones, or enjoying a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream in his memory.