Michael Ruland Gardner

Michael Ruland Gardner passed away peacefully at Bryn Mawr Hospital on November 28, 2022 at the age of 85. He was born in Harrisburg, PA on November 21, 1937 to George Alfred and Olive Marie (Ruland) Gardner.

Michael graduated from Harrisburg Catholic High School (now Bishop McDevitt High School) in 1955. He then went to Dickinson College where he participated in the ROTC program. He graduated in 1959 with Honors in History. He then joined the Marine Corps, completed his active duty requirement in 1962 and transferred to the Marine Corps Reserve. He graduated from Dickinson School of Law in 1967. Instead of immediately entering the practice of law, he chose to volunteer for a tour of duty in Vietnam. He was awarded the Bronze Star for Meritorious Service from December 21, 1967 to July 18, 1968. He then returned to the Marine Corps Reserve attaining the rank of Colonel before his retirement in November, 1997.

Michael practiced law in Philadelphia for over 30 years. He was passionate about the law and military history.

Michael is survived by his wife, Lorraine Taylor Gardner (Jane), his sister Maria L. (Ron) Reedy, stepsister Patricia (David) Volrath and children Clinton P. (Sharon) Gardner, Owen M. (Lisa) Gardner,  Michael LeRoy (Erin) Gardner, James Mead (Sarah) Gardner, Caitlin Lorraine (Daniel) Lyons, and stepchildren Rodger (Jennifer) Cottrell, Christopher (Marine) Cottrell, Darcy (Christine) Cottrell, 17 grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to his Funeral Service Friday, December 2, 2022 at 11:00 AM at St. David Episcopal Old Church, 763 South Valley Forge Road, Wayne, PA. Interment in St. David Episcopal Churchyard.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Michael’s memory to the Marine Corps League, 430 Chestnut Street, Downingtown, PA 19335, would be appreciated