Robert E. Gardner, 51, of Marion, passed away at 4:20 am on Friday, October 17, 2025, at Indiana University Health Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis.
He was born in Muncie, Indiana, on Thursday, January 3, 1974, to William and Kathy Gardner. On July 24, 2024, he married Katie (Kate) Snell-Cordell in Gulf Shores, Alabama. She survives.
Robert graduated from Muncie Southside High School and was employed with E&B Paving through Indiana Laborers Local 1112. His passion was riding his Harley with his wife and friends. They enjoyed spontaneous rides and adventures, as well as hunting and RV cars. He also enjoyed spending time with his best friend and always showing up just in time to eat Shelly's home cooking. Being with his family meant everything to Robert.
In addition to his wife, Robert is survived by his lifelong best friend and brother by heart, Mike (Shelly) Miller of Yorktown, IN; brother, Chris (Linda) Gardner of Muncie, IN; kids: Ethan (Taylor) Cordell of Daleville, IN; Lennon Cordell of Marion, IN; and Wyatt and Shyann Gardner of Muncie, IN; favorite mother-in-law, Marta Johnson of Marion, IN; special family by heart: Jacob (Taylor) Chambers of Anderson, IN; Meggan Ulmer of Muncie, IN; Katelynn (Rob Retz) Ulmer of Muncie, IN; Jasen (Charity Payton) Ulmer of Muncie, IN; and Tristin (Catherine Dance) Miller of Napoleon, IN; and will forever be known as Uncle Robert to Juliet, Rhett, Leo, Beau, Sophia, Eli, and special buddy, Bella.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
At Robert's request, there will be no public visitation or funeral service. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
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