"My old friend John:Just heard of your passing. You were a true pillar of the Utah aviation community, a kind and generous man. On many flights down to Vernal from Calgary, my parking spot on your ramp was always waiting, immediately followed by your warm welcome back to Vernal. The old silver Buick was always available if I ever needed wheels and you kept my old 180 fueled like a fighter, ready to scramble at a moments notice. I will never forget the day I pulled up in front of your hangar and that beaming smile beckoned me within to see your gorgeous new 76 180, probably the nicest in existence. Also s shrewd business man I found out when I couldnt convince you to trade straight across for my classic 57 180 . You will be missed by many pilots from near and far. Blue skies John, from your loyal, grateful and saddened Canuck friend from Calgary. Tim Wall"
In loving memory of
John Arthur Gardiner
August 27, 1940 - February 12, 2019
John A. Gardiner age 78 died peacefully on February 12, 2019. John was born August 27, 1940 in Vernal, UT to Carl and Zina Gardiner. John made an impact on our community that most people only dream of. He made his dreams a reality and built Dinaland Aviation and became the best pilot he could be.He was a father, brother, pilot, golfer, storyteller, farmer, and one of the best friends you could imagine.Celebration of life Will be Saturday May 25, 2019 3:00 P.M. at Dinaland Aviation.
Tributes
"John taught me to fly and golf and all about aircraft. He helped me buy a plane, upgrade it and helped troubleshoot and repair it when there was issues. Spent many flights and time together while I worked part-time for him at Dinaland. Great times and fond memories."
"Me too Lori. He was definitely one of a kind."
"John and I shared golf, flying, rolled a truck and had many dinners and good times. One of my best friends. Helped me acquire my pilots license, multi-engine ticket and my taildragger and helped me pass my commercial written. We had more fun than any two friends could have ask for. He always made me laugh and if I needed him for anything he was there. His children were always his best friends. I will truly miss him. See you on the other side."
"My Dad loved you Bobby! I wanted my ears pierced so bad but my Mom said no! Dad brought me in to your jewelry store and you pierced my ears, much the dismay of my Mom. He wanted me to be happy so he over rode Mom. I love this memory!!"
"I am so very sorry for your loss. Please find comfort in God's sure promise of a resurrection as set forth in the Bible. (Acts 24:15; John 5:28,29) Those who are raised to life will have the prospect of never again being subject to misery, sickness, or death. (Revelation 21:4) I hope that reflecting on these thoughts and your wonderful memories will give you some relief during this difficult time."
"I was a classmate with John and was on the basketball team and we would have won State my junior year if John had not blown out his knee when we went to State. We had many talks as I flew into Vernal and gassed up the plane before heading back to Spanish Fork. John will be missed by many as his personally was contagious to those that came in contact with him. Thanks for the memories we have shared over the years."
"On a long cross country flight from the front range into vernal we were having trouble starting the piper warrior that we had taken. John helped us troubleshoot the issue for about 30 minutes only to find that the primer knob wasnt putting fuel into the cylinders unless it was finagled ina special way. John Gardiner was always a friendly sight at the Vernal airport and he will be dearly missed."
"Russ, Jodi and family,My deepest sympathy to you during this difficult time. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers."