A candle was lit by Stan H, former student on December 31, 2023 1:21 PM

A candle was lit by ❤️❤️❤️ on August 20, 2023 1:32 AM

Message from Former student

Still thinking of him and his loved ones.
Loss is a tricky thing, and although the pain will never truly leave you, I hope you are all more at ease now.
Sending love. He was a remarkable human being.

A candle was lit by Previous student on August 19, 2023 6:47 PM

A candle was lit by Previous student on August 19, 2023 6:44 PM

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My condolences. I am sending my thoughts and prayers to him and his family members, however, I knew a different side of Mr. Gardner.. I don't know if anyone will read this, however I want to put it out there.

I believe Steven was a good man, as all people are in one way or another, however his mental health heavily intercepted with his teaching while I was in third grade. He had a temper, the other students and I never understood why. He had outbursts and would often yell at my classmates, along with myself. Many mornings I was terrified to go to school because of his temper, and I was not the only one. Many children cried that year, and it was such a drastic change of atmosphere compared to the calm and happiness of second grade.. I suppose that could have also been the changes in learning that often comes with third grade, but I feel it was more than that. There were some days where he was happy and at ease, however you never knew which side of him you were going to get. Since we were all so young, we didn't understand why he was so hard on us, and I now realize it was because of his declining mental health. I still struggle with authority figures such as teachers because of the yelling and the tense atmosphere. It was a very very scary year, but it didn't have to be that way. He did many things that have affected me to this day and It was like walking on eggshells constantly, and the other staff were unaware of how he treated us. However, many children went to Mrs. Tina, our school counselor, and the other principals to speak about how scared we were. We didn't understand his mental health was declining heavily.. As far as I know, the staff did nothing, as nothing had changed that year. It's absolutely infuriating to me that so many red flags were popping up a year in advance of his passing, and nothing was done about it in any sort of way. It's infuriating to me not only because of his passing, but also that those children did not deserve to be yelled at. In the third grade I developed severe anxiety and I would often have panic attacks due to it. My own mental health declined for years after, and now I've finally been able to process that year and the other things that have happened after, and I don't blame Steven for how he treated us. He was hurt, and I know he was a good person.. I wish I could have seen that person though. Maybe I was just an extra sensitive kid, and maybe I don't exactly remember it how it was, but from recent experience's I can see that many staff at Mead often refuse to acknowledge things that can cause disasters. I don't blame the school, however I do know that there was so much more they could have done. This was years ago, I don't know who is on staff now, but what I can say is the staff severely neglected the terrified students in my class, and they failed to help Steven during his dark times. It's sickening to me, because I feel that things could have turned out differently for everyone involved.

I wish Steven safe travels now, and I sincerely hope he is happy and at peace. He did not deserve all of the pain that he felt.
I doubt anyone will read this, however if anyone does.. I suppose my message is that the Mead staff that year could have done so much more for everyone. It hurts me deeply that they didn't.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Steven's family.

A candle was lit by Anon on January 10, 2023 8:44 AM

A candle was lit by Miss you on August 4, 2022 10:57 AM

A candle was lit by Miss you on December 3, 2019 3:19 PM

A candle was lit by bethegonoodlefan-5th grader on August 2, 2019 3:41 PM

Message from He knows

Mr. Gardner could do anything and everything the most gifted person I ever knew! We miss him everyday.

A candle was lit by Isabella Hopkins on May 19, 2019 9:39 AM

Message from Isabella Hopkins

Mr Gardner was my math teacher when I was in the third grade. One day, I caught my bfs Kate and Layla crying with their heads down on their desks. (Layla just had tears down her face, Kate was full crying, heartbroken, and her eyes were red and welled up with tears.) They got up, And I asked them what was wrong, An they did not tell me. Later on, Mr. Danford, Mr. VanCleef, And Miss Tina came in to our home room. “I have some sad news,” Mr Danford said. “Is the school closing down?” I blurted. “ No.” Said Mr. Danford. “Mr Gardner died, over the weekend and he won’t be back. I’m sorry he passed away.” I felt bad for Mr. Pybus because I knew that he and Mr. Gardner were best friends. He came to my classroom and gave me a hug. About a month later, I brought him a nice note and some M&Ms. About a week after, I gave him a BAGFUL of candy! He ate it all! I even spoke at his funeral, and everyone in the room was deeply moved. My speech:
“My name is Isabella,
Mr. Gardner was my math skills teacher.
One day he called me his hero.
I’m going to miss him.”

A candle was lit by Isabella Hopkins, Mr. Gardner’s Math student on April 4, 2019 12:17 PM

A candle was lit by Andrew on February 26, 2019 12:08 PM

A candle was lit by Andrew on February 24, 2019 9:12 PM

Message from Lori Lawson

Michelle, I've been thinking of you and praying for you since I heard earlier this week of Steve's passing. I was so sorry to hear of this sad news.

Message from Terri Rauscher Clay

Steve was a friend of mine in junior high and high school. I remember both his wacky sense of humor and his depth of caring for his friends and family. I was glad for the times he shared about his growing family on Facebook, and my prayers are now with you as you move forward. Steve won't be with you physically, but I know you will continue to carry him with you all your lives.

Message from Janelle Hildahl

Such a shock to hear of Steve's passing. My prayers and deepest condolences go out to the entire family. Steve always had a smile to share and such quick wit, he was a bright light for so many. I remember working with him a bit in children's ministry at Fourth Memorial and later running in to him through our district.

Message from bethegonoodlefan

I was shocked too! I hear both he died from an illness or he suicided. I go to the school he taught. I still have hallucinations of his voice.
-Isabella “bethegonoodlefan” Hopkins 10 yrs. 5th Grader

Message from Diane Kruiswyk

Steve was an amazing colleague. His heart was open and he made a great latte. He brought smiles to many faces with his magic tricks and always enjoyed teaching. Pirate Steve will be missed deeply.

A candle was lit by Diane Kruiswyk on March 21, 2018 7:50 AM

Message from Kathy Meredith

Steve was an amazing colleague. He brought joy to students and staff alike. He was always ready with a helping hand, a joke or a good magic trick. Steve influenced hundreds of students at Evergreen Elementary and left last impressions on the staff. He was a man of many talents, in and out of the classroom. I so enjoyed his friendship and leadership throughout our years together. I’ll always remember how proud and excited he was to be on stage, with son Peter, in ‘Oklahoma’. He was a great stage cowboy and a fabulous ‘pirate’. Steve Gardner was a man who always took on more than asked. A life well lived. He will be missed.

A candle was lit by Heidi Vanderzee on March 20, 2018 5:13 PM

Message from Jerry and Glenda Roberts

We were so shocked and so sad to hear of Steve’s passing. Our hearts and prayers go out to you Michelle and your family. We feel very blessed that we knew Steve, what a wonderful, kind, loving human. He will be missed by so many.
Love and hugs, Jerry & Glenda

A candle was lit by The Sherman family on March 19, 2018 8:45 PM

Message from David & Deborah Sherman & Nathan

How shocked we were to learn of Steve's passing. Even though our years together were brief (at 4th Memorial in Spokane) he had a significant impact on our lives. Steve was so friendly, fun and welcoming to our family. He was very supportive of David in their pastoral roles. If we lived closer we would certainly attend Steve's memorial service,

A candle was lit by A family friend on March 18, 2018 2:04 PM

A candle was lit by The Eacker Family on March 17, 2018 4:42 PM

A candle was lit by The Gardner Family on March 15, 2018 4:51 PM

A candle was lit by The Huffmanparent family on March 12, 2018 10:46 AM

Message from Frank & Cathy Betzer

I am so sorry to learn of Steve's passing. He was a good friend in our college days, a man of God, an inspiring member of our fellowship group and a key member of our Pod 2, Floor 1 dorm. Although we didn't connect much in recent years I always knew Steve would be a friend I could pick up with again at any time. I hope to attend his memorial service to celebrate Steve's life. Your family will be in our prayers.

Message from Dave Vaughn

Tammy and I are so sorry for the loss of Steve from this earth. It is such a tragedy. He was a good, good man, in-process until his final breath, just like the rest of us. We are praying, have been praying and will continue to pray for each of his family members especially, but also for the kids in his class that he left behind.

Message from Beverly Haller Aydelotte

I have many fond memories of Steve from our school days in Forest Grove. He was a very special person. It is clear that he has touched many lives and will be greatly missed by all.

A candle was lit by Beverly Haller Aydelotte on February 28, 2018 10:44 AM

A candle was lit by Debbie Donohue on February 27, 2018 7:09 PM

A candle was lit by Valerie Laiho on February 27, 2018 6:28 PM

A candle was lit by The Medellin family on February 27, 2018 1:22 PM

Message from Vickie Mularski

So sorry for your loss. Praying for your family. I work with Steve in the summer at the ballpark.

Message from Mary Jane DeWolf-Kirchner

Remembering Steve....one who made such a difference in may lives, especially his children. Sending my deepest sympathy to the family. So very sad to hear this news. Rest In Peace Steve.

A candle was lit by Mary Jane DeWolf-Kirchner on February 26, 2018 1:12 PM

A candle was lit by Tiersa and Darlene Harkins on February 25, 2018 7:59 PM

A candle was lit by Eileen Green on February 25, 2018 3:45 PM

Message from Eileen Green

Steve and I have been lifelong friends from Forest Grove,OR. Treasured memories from years of growing up together. Who ever would guessed that our paths again would cross here in Spokane WA. He touched many lives throughout his life and will be Truly be missed by those who knew him. There didn’t seem to be a community event that he wasn’t a part of, from first aid stations at hoop fest to ushering at the Indians baseball game. But most of all his love and devotion to his family. Our thoughts, love and prayers are with you Gardner Family.

A candle was lit by Dot Van Dyke on February 25, 2018 11:37 AM

A candle was lit by A former 4th grade student. on February 25, 2018 8:51 AM

Message from Daniel Banham

Steve was one of my best friends in high school. We spent a lot of time together and in each other’s homes. We were in band, choir and drama together. So many memories. I am deeply grieving his loss with you. My prayers are with all of you.

A candle was lit by Dan Banham on February 25, 2018 3:52 AM

Message from A Mom of a current stufent

You my friend are already missed greatly by your current students. Many of us have cried many tears. Your loss is felt greatly. You would be proud of your kids and how they are handling the loss of their beloved teacher. Thank you for loving them! To Mr. Gardner’s family, thank you for searing him with our children.

A candle was lit by Grateful Parent of a student❤️ on February 24, 2018 10:55 PM

A candle was lit by Tamara Kennedy-Gibbens on February 24, 2018 10:20 PM

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Our love to each of you in the Gardner family. You are precious to us, and we hope you can feel the love coming your way. God's abundant grace holds us all.

A candle was lit by Tamara Kennedy-Gibbens on February 24, 2018 10:15 PM

Message from Winston & Kirsten Cook

We have known Steve & Michelle since the early 80's, when each of our families began welcoming babies! The Gardner's hold a large place in our hearts & Steve was a cherished friend. His love for the Lord, Michelle, & his family was a bright beacon in a dark world that diminishes the value of hearth & home. Rest well from your labors, dear brother. We know you have received 'well done, thou good and faithful servant' from our precious Savior. Your life has impacted so many for the gospel and the salvation of physical lives around the globe.

A candle was lit by Shelly Kane Hertel on February 24, 2018 7:10 PM

A candle was lit by Dot Hall Van Dyke on February 24, 2018 4:20 PM

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For the Gardner Family - I have so many fond memories of Steve and of the kids when they were little. My memories of Steve go back to junior high and continue to the present. He was a great friend to me - always warm and caring. I am praying for your family.

Steve - thank you for being my friend, for helping me learn how to get an A in US History, and for the countless great memories we have. I am so glad you felt free to call or stop by to say hi. I know you are now in the arms of Jesus. Rest in His great joy my Friend.

Message from Mari Sheets Cooke

Steve and family touched my life so deeply during our time together in Taiwan. It’s because of them that I adopted a daughter from China. My heart is broken for all of you, but I know with confidence where his soul rests.

A candle was lit by Mari Sheets Cooke on February 24, 2018 12:21 PM

A candle was lit by a co-worker on February 24, 2018 11:58 AM

Message from Shawn Reilly Lutz

Steve was a long time friend as was his family with our's in Forest Grove. Our prayers go out to the whole family.

Message from janine fraser

Hugs to Steve's family, I am so sorry.

A candle was lit by Paulson Family on February 23, 2018 8:26 PM

A candle was lit by Former student on February 23, 2018 7:48 PM

Message from Hans Holznagel, Cleveland, Ohio

Dear Family of Steve: He and I were among a fun circle of friends and acquaintances at Forest Grove (Ore.) High School -- students from the intersections of the worlds of band, choir, drama and other activities. I remember fondly his intelligent (and sometimes irreverent!) sense of humor, his cheery, positive attitude, and some really fun times together. It has been many long years since we've spoken in person, but, as you can see, his influence on people's lives will live on. I can scarcely imagine the pain you must be experiencing. May moments of grace and peace find their way to you in this season of grief and mourning.

A candle was lit by Teresa Hopper on February 23, 2018 6:25 AM

Message from Sarah, mom of two students

I am so happy that my children were able to have you as their third grade teacher. You were so patient and kind to them. They thrived in your class. You were so patient with both of them during the moments they were struggling. Thank you for all the time, effort and love you poured into your classroom. You will be missed.

A candle was lit by A friend in Jesus on February 22, 2018 8:59 PM

A candle was lit by Henry and joy Lightfoot on February 22, 2018 8:35 PM

Message from Henry Lightfoot

Fly with angels my friend fly with the angels.

A candle was lit by A friend on February 22, 2018 8:14 PM

A candle was lit by A former student on February 22, 2018 7:37 PM

A candle was lit by A former student. on February 22, 2018 7:37 PM

A candle was lit by A sister in Christ on February 22, 2018 7:26 PM

A candle was lit by Family Friend on February 22, 2018 5:52 PM

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Steve was a very eager, gentle, compassionate children's pastor of which many of us have benefitted from his calling. He also had a touch of magic engaging kids in a unique & different way. He touched the lives of many & is deeply missed.

A candle was lit by A co-worker on February 22, 2018 5:11 PM

A candle was lit by Former Student on February 22, 2018 2:09 PM

A candle was lit by Family Friend on February 22, 2018 2:08 PM

Message from family of a student

Deeply saddened to hear of this loss. Mr Gardner touched the lives of many in his work with children as a teacher. His kindness will always be remembered. His thoughtful award passed out to our student at the end of the year was framed and hangs on our child's wall provides a touching reminder of his kindness. Sadly, as I have thought of several times, I never got the chance to thank him for this gesture and how we where touched by it.

A candle was lit by Family of a student of Mr Gardner on February 22, 2018 10:12 AM

A candle was lit by Family of student of Mr. Gardner's on February 21, 2018 11:26 PM

A candle was lit by Paula Davis on February 21, 2018 2:46 PM