James "Jim" Bryson Gardner

James "Jim" Bryson Gardner, 89, of Homer, passed away on September 19, 2024 at his family farm surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 1, 1934 to Kenny Ross and Audra (Allen) Gardner in Jewett, Ohio. While working for Oaklawn Hospital, he met Connie (Blue) Willis. On May 2, 1998 they got married in Marshall. Jim joined the US AirForce and became a fighter pilot during the Korean War. After the war, Jim went to Ferris State College and graduated from the School of Pharmacy with his Master’s Degree, he also attended Ohio State University. He owned and operated a pharmacy in Cheboygan, MI and later he worked for Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall. 

Jim loved going to the air races in Reno, Nevada, he was an avid reader and he especially loved going to his favorite fly fishing spot on the Pigeon River near Cheboygan. He would on occasion visit casinos. Jim and Connie loved to travel together. He had a great sense of humor, his family referred to some of his witty remarks as "Jimisims." 

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Connie; children, James (Julie) Gardner, Joel (Connie) Gardner, Jeff Gardner, Janine (Michael) Shierbeck, Anthony (Kim) Willis, Nicholas (Jackie) Willis, Mitchell (Amie) Willis; 15 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Jean, Kenneth, Ronald, Shirley and Ed.

At the request of Jim’s family, he will be cremated and taken to his favorite fly fishing spot on Pigeon River near Cheboygan, MI. 

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Jim’s name may do so to the Homer Public Library or Oaklawn Hospice. Arrangements have been entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services. Please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guestbook, or to share memories and pictures with the family.