David A. Gardner

David A. Gardner "Dave", 55, of North Providence, died on January 1, 2025 at Our Lady of Fatima Hospital. Born in Providence, he was a son of Carla L. (Baker) O’Neill and the late Harry W. Gardner III, and stepson of Howard I. O’Neill.

David is also survived by his brother, Scott E. Gardner and his wife, Dawn, his sister, Cheryl L. Gardner, five nieces, Ashley, Katelyn, Kristin, Kerri, and Hannah, three great-nieces, Kora, Luna, Kenzie and one great-nephew, Konrad, stepsiblings, Lori, Allison, John, and Bradford, as well as his faithful canine companion, Abby.

David served in the U.S. Marines and had a great love for the Marine Corp. He was an ASE Certified Mechanic, working for Bill Graham Ford of Bradenton, FL, among other auto shops in Florida. He had also worked as a mechanic at Apex in Pawtucket and Sears in Woonsocket. David enjoyed watching auto racing, taking apart engines and putting them back together. He could tell you the make of a car or what was wrong with your car just by listening to it. Even after his stroke he would help people with their car repairs. In spite of his severe disability, David had a great sense of humor and the ability to make everyone laugh.

David lived at Spring Villa Apartments in North Providence for 20 years. He was well loved by his many friends at the apartment building.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 17, 2025 from 10-11 am, followed by a memorial service at 11 am in the Robbins Funeral Home, 2251 Mineral Spring Ave., North Providence. Burial will follow in Highland Memorial Park, Johnston, where he will be laid to rest next to his father. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tri Town Animal Shelter, 900 Smithfield Rd., North Providence, RI 02904.