Lt. Col. David L. Garner

[ironputts]

September 5, 2024

Lt. Col. David L. Garner
Headquarters
Tennessee Wing

David Garner, a loving and devoted father, husband, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2024 at the age of 80. Born in Knoxville, TN, he was the beloved husband of the late Gail Campbell Garner, with whom he shared 56 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Dave earned his Master's in Science from the University of Tennessee, a testament to his passion for education and lifelong learning. He was a dedicated teacher for 17 years, teaching high school science and serving as a guidance counselor, where he touched countless lives and inspired future generations. His commitment to education extended beyond the classroom; for 25 years, he also worked in the computer industry including owning his company, ECS Computer Systems, combining his love for technology with his entrepreneurial spirit. His contributions to both the field of education and his community left a lasting impact that reached far and wide.

As a father, Dave was a guiding light, offering unwavering support and affection to his children. To his grandchildren, he was not just a grandfather but a second father, deeply involved in their lives and always present with a listening ear and a heart full of love.

His joy in life was infectious, and his dedication to serving others extended to his involvement in numerous clubs and associations.

A dedicated ham radio operator for 61 years, Dave was an active American Radio Relay League (ARRL) member and was a contact person for the Knoxville area. He was also a proud member and past president of the East Tennessee DX Association, past president of the Middle East Tennessee Emergency Radio Service (METERS), and a member of the Radio Amateur Club of Knoxville (RACK), where he served as hamfest chairman. His enthusiasm for amateur radio expanded to STEM outreach programs in local schools, where he introduced the hobby to students, inspiring a new generation of enthusiasts.

In addition to his involvement in ham radio, Dave was a dedicated member of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), where he achieved the rank of Lt. Colonel and served in numerous leadership roles. His service included positions on the National Staff as Aerospace Education Member Workshop Coordinator and member of various Aerospace Education groups. In the Southeast Region, he served as Deputy Chief of Staff (DCS) for Aerospace Education and Assistant DCS for Aerospace Education. Within the Tennessee Wing, he was the Director of Aerospace Education, Director of Communications, and External Aerospace Education Officer. For many years, Dave also taught a summer graduate-level course in aerospace education for teachers at the University of Tennessee. His exemplary service earned him several prestigious awards, including the CAP Exceptional Service Award with Clasp (2nd award) and the CAP Crisis Service Ribbon. He was also part of the only non-military organization to receive the US Air Force Organizational Excellence Award.

In recognition of his contributions to the Air & Space Forces Association (AFA), Dave served as Vice President of Aerospace Education and was awarded the 2023 Medal of Merit for his outstanding service to the local AFA chapter. Over nearly a decade, he was instrumental in providing Teacher of the Year nominations, promoting Cyber Patriot contestants, and distributing 17 STEM kits to science teachers throughout Knoxville area schools.

Dave was a devoted Union Cumberland Presbyterian Church member for 57 years, where he served in various capacities, including his current role as the finance elder and previous service as an elder in prior years. One of his most significant contributions to the church was the founding of the radio station WUCP LP 99.9 FM. Dave established the station, managed it, and served as its broadcast engineer, ensuring its broadcast was both on-air and online, streaming from Union Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Farragut, TN. His work in broadcasting was a true reflection of his deep commitment to his faith and community. Additionally, he was an active member of the East Tennessee chapter of the Society of Broadcast Engineers.

A true patriot, Dave loved his country deeply and took great pride in his service and community involvement. He also retired as a reserve officer from the Knox County Sheriff's Department after 17 years of service, holding the rank of Lt. He was a member of the Blue Knights Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club, Chapter III, in Knoxville, TN, where he enjoyed motorcycle riding and the camaraderie of fellow law enforcement officers.

Beyond his professional and community achievements, Dave was a friend to many, always ready with a kind word or a helping hand. His love for animals, especially his Labrador Retrievers, was well known, as was his passion for boating, aviation, and amateur astronomy. Daytona Beach held a special place in his heart, and he cherished every vacation spent there. Dave and his wife, both avid gardeners and birdwatchers, found joy in cultivating a variety of vegetables and flowers in their garden. Their love for nature extended beyond gardening, as they spent countless hours observing and appreciating the beauty of the birds that visited their yard.

Dave leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering commitment to his faith, family, and community. His influence was felt far and wide, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Dave is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gail; his daughter, Amy; his parents, Joe and Pauline Garner; grandparents; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Dave is survived by his two daughters and sons-in-law, Kim Garner House and Jerry House, and Jennifer Garner Patterson and Eric Patterson. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Zach House, Cameron House, Garrett House, Elijah House, Jackson House, Victoria Patterson, and Campbell Patterson, as well as his great-granddaughter, Riley Kate House. Additionally, he is survived by his loving sister, Deloris Tolson, and several cousins.