Larry Dean Gardner

Larry Dean Gardner, born on April 3, 1950, in Yuma, Colorado, “invaded”  heaven on May 13, 2025, in Wray, Colorado, at the age of 75.

Larry was born to Merle and Hazel Gardner of Eckley, Colorado. He was the oldest of three children, with a younger sister, Delaina, and a little brother, Todd. He spent his early years in Eckley, where he attended school for eight years before completing high school in Yuma. A proud graduate of Yuma High School in 1968, Larry was very active in 4-H and FFA, earning many awards and recognitions for his dedication and achievements.

Following high school, Larry attended Colorado State University, where he majored in Agricultural Science. While at CSU, he was involved in the Livestock Club and also joined the Army National Guard. At the end of his freshman year, Larry met Cindy Beighley, and what began as a friendship quickly grew into a lasting love. They were married on March 20, 1971, in the Eckley Presbyterian Church.

Larry and Cindy made their first home in a mobile home on his parents’ place, where he began farming, ranching, and dairying alongside his family. Cindy worked in Yuma during that time. Their family began with a son named Jason Robert who was followed by Benjamin Joseph and as their family grew, so did their home. They moved across the yard into Larry’s parents' house while a new home was built for Merle and Hazel. The family was blessed again with the birth of a daughter named Jennifer Ann. Years later, Larry and Cindy opened their hearts and home to two more daughters through adoption—Elisa and Brittany.

In 1983, the family farm officially became a partnership, primarily producing corn, pinto beans, and occasionally potatoes. Over the years, the operation evolved, transitioning toward a focus on Black Angus cattle. Larry was always adapting to the changing times in agriculture, trusting that God would continue to guide and bless their work. Larry also spent time on the Wray School Board, and New Life Christian Center Board. He was a member and officer in the Kitzmiller grazing association.

A devoted man of God, Larry’s faith was central to his life. He lived with humility, kindness, and quiet strength. His love for his family was unwavering, and his life was a testament to service—both to his community and to the Lord. He touched countless lives with his gentle spirit, wisdom, steadfast character and orneriness. He loved his kids, but had a special place in his heart for his grandkids and loved being a part of their lives.

Larry’s legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the land he stewarded so faithfully. His memory will remain deeply rooted in the hearts of all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his dad, Merle, brother Todd, in laws Harold & Mary Beighley, sister in law Elizabeth Beighley & Lou Beighley.

He is survived by mother Hazel Gardner,  wife Cindy, sons Jason (wife Allison), Ben (wife Resa) Gardner, daughters Jennifer (husband Bill) Dancer, Elisa Gardner, Brittany (husband Andy) Lupton, six grandkids, Cooper & Callie Gardner, Ashley & Derek Dancer, Benjamin & Drew Gardner, and sister Delaina Klein.

Larry was a faithful servant, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend—and he will be forever missed.

The family of Larry thanks you all for coming to the celebration of his life.

In lieu of flowers;

Memorials may be made to Samaritan's Purse or the Wray WRAC