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Sheldon Lee Gardner died peacefully on March 25, 2008, at the age of 72. Sheldon passed from this life in the same manner of which he lived, with quiet dignity. He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Barbara; daughter Teresa Schneider and husband, Larry, granddaughter Sydney Marie; daughter Nancy Giblin and husband, David, grandson Christian Max Gardner; sisters Mary Kay Stein (Don) and Betty Verplank; brother Robert Dunlap, Jr. (Joan); two special aunts (Twila and Donna), and numerous relatives and friends. Sheldon was born in Salina, Kansas, on July 14, 1935. He moved with his family to Corrales in 1947. He attended Albuquerque High School, graduated in 1953, attended UNM, and joined the USAF in 1954. He retired from the military after 22 devoted years to his country. He continued his career as a civil servant with the Defense Nuclear Agency as well as an employee of the State of New Mexico working in the corrections department at CNMC. Sheldon is remembered by those who knew him as a "kind and gentle cowboy." He was a generous and loving soul, who was able to see the good in everybody and as a result made friends wherever he went. He was never too busy to help someone in need and never wanted anything in return. He was the happiest when spending time with his family, enjoying his granddaughter Sydney singing in the opera or fly fishing with his grandson Max. Above all, he was at his happiest during the quiet moments he spent with his wife Barbara. His legacy of love will remain with us for the rest of our lives. Sheldon is now free from the body that has kept him from doing the things he loved most; he is now in heaven and able to bale alfalfa, brand cows, and spend his days fishing. Hopefully in heaven he'll actually be able to catch a fish! Cremation has taken place. A private Memorial Service will be held at Faith Lutheran Church, located at 10,000 Spain Road. A Celebration of Sheldon's life will be held in the Fellowship Hall at 3:00 p.m.-4:30 pm - all friends welcome. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to be made in Sheldon's name to Faith Lutheran Church. Arrangements are under the direction of: Daniels Family Funeral Services 7601 Wyoming Blvd, NE Albuquerque, NM 87109 (505) 821-0010 www.danielsfuneral.com
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