Michael Judd Gardner

Michael Judd Gardner born on January 6, 1957, died on January 19, 2023 at his home in West Jordan, Utah. Michael, as his brothers and sister always called him, definitely took on his father, Duncan Riggs Gardner’s strength and resilience–without forsaking his mother, Shirley Mae Judd Gardner’s care for the little things. Mike, as so many of his friends and colleagues knew him was a pillar of strength and a caring, hardworking man.

Mike worked long and hard in his life, first as a carpenter, taking after his father, but after injuries that often take down many carpenters, he started work at the Utah Department of Corrections, ultimately achieving the rank of sergeant. He retired from the Department after 35 years of service. Earlier on, he was also a farmer on the family farm with his brother Larry until that became impossible in the growing suburbs of Salt Lake City.

Michael was more than just this work, but work was all Mike was about. He was an avid woodworker, and he gifted his work readily to friends and family. Like his grandfather, Henry Clinton Gardner, he loved to work the soil, creating a beautiful garden in his native home of West Jordan, Utah, upon the earth that his ancestors had settled one hundred and 76 years previous.

Woodwork was his art. Gardening was his life. Those who were lucky enough to receive one of his creations well know their value. Such craft is rare.

Michael was preceded in death by his sister Annette, his mother Shirley Mae Judd Gardner, and his father Duncan Riggs Gardner. He leaves behind his brothers Larry Duncan and Clinton Ray Gardner, and many nieces and nephews and his aunt Ina Judd Nelson and his uncle Steve and Cherri Judd, along with many cousins and friends.

Per Michael’s request, there will be no funeral services.