Gerald Eugene Gard, 88, of Tulsa, Oklahoma went to be with his Lord and Savior on April 10, 2017. He was a man of strength and kindness. Gerald was a loving husband and caring father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
He was born October 1, 1928 in Overton, Nebraska to Grant George Gard and Myrtle Maxine Morton Gard. He graduated from Overton High School in 1946. After attending Kearney State College, he married his high school sweetheart Betty Jean Haack. They raised a family living in Nebraska and Illinois. Gerald was a conductor and brakeman for the Union Pacific, Rock Island, and Burlington Northern Railroads. He retired from his railroading career after 43 years.
Gerald was preceded in death by his sister Maxine Gard, his parents, and his wife of 49 years Betty Jean. He is survived by his wife, Janet Durham Gard of Fountain Hills, Arizona, and his three children, Geary (Sandy) Gard of Sparks, Nevada; Michael (Angie) Gard of Austin, Texas; and Karen (Dan) Powell of Tulsa. Gerald is also survived by his brother, Grant (Anita) Gard of Arvada, Colorado. He was blessed with 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Gerald was fortunate to retire at an early age to pursue a multitude of hobbies. He loved bass fishing in Nebraska and Arizona. He was an avid gardener, accomplished carpenter, and excellent restorer of classic automobiles.
A celebration of Gerald's life will be held in a graveside service at the City of Mesa Cemetery in Mesa, Arizona on April 21, 2017. The family wants to express deep appreciation to all caregivers who loved and cared for Gerald the past year. Memorial donations can be made to Oklahoma Boston Terrier Rescue ( https://okbtrs.org ).

Fitzgerald Southwood Colonial Chapel, 918-291-3500