Stephen Gardner

Stephen Gardner, 76, of Pekin, IL passed away on Monday, September 14, 2026 at Sunset Rehabilitation & Health Care in Canton, IL.

Steve was born on October 17, 1949 in Pekin to Charles and Ethel (Gordon) Gardner. He married Patricia Utter-Broughton on December 24, 1987.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Andrew Gardner; one sister, Jean Bolen.

Surviving is: his wife, Patricia of Pekin; one daughter, Terri (Mike) Pogioli of Pekin; two step-children, Jason (Amanda) Broughton of Pekin and Jon (Hayley) Broughton of Sebeka, MN; two grandsons, Evan Pogioli and Carter Pogioli; eight step-grandchildren, Emiley Pogioli, Katie Pogioli, and Anthony Pogioli, Isabelle Broughton, Adin Broughton, Kera Broughton, Miya Broughton and Owen Broughton; five step great-grandchildren, Jaxson Pogioli, Evelynn Pogioli, Vincent Newsome, Eloise Pogioli and Cyrus Pogioli; sister-in-law, Donna Turner of Grand Berry, TX; many nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews.

Steve was a hardworking man who dedicated more than 36 years of his career to Caterpillar, where he worked as a pattern maker and machinist. He retired in 2004. He was an avid Chicago Cub’s fan. In his younger years, he was a baseball player and coach. He loved watching his grandsons play baseball.

Outside of work, Steve loved going to dirt track races and cruise-ins. He also enjoyed camping and fishing. His favorite TV shows were Andy Griffith and Gun Smoke. He will be remembered by his family and friends for the time they shared together and the lasting memories he created throughout his life.

Funeral Services will be at 11:00 AM Monday, September 21, 2026 at Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory with Terry Johnson officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM -11:00 AM Monday at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Glendale Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions may be made to TAPS, Vitas Hospice, or Alzheimer’s Association.