Joseph Paul Gardner, II

Joseph Paul Gardner, II, 62, of Colchester, passed away unexpectedly at home on November 18, 2018.  Born in Montclair, NJ on July 29, 1956, he was the son of the late Joseph and Frances (O’Brien) Gardner.  He married his beloved wife, Laurie Anne Lafontaine on May 23, 1987.  The couple moved to Colchester where they made their home and raised their family.  Joe was a Principal Scientist, working for Pfizer Pharmaceuticals for 30 years and most recently for Green Mt. Antibodies in Burlington, VT.  Throughout his career, he was hardworking and dedicated to the discovery of antibody treatments for cancer patients.  His work and scientific discovery and accomplishments were of such consequence that a vendor company in Europe named one of their research buildings after him.  Joe was also an accomplished conductor, forming the Pfizer Chamber Orchestra and also conducting for the Colchester Regional Chamber Orchestra.  Joe was an avid fan of science fiction and old movies.  He was also a history buff, enjoying the renaissance and civil war periods.  Most importantly, he will be remembered by his family for his hard work, love and devotion.  He will be sadly missed but always remembered with love by his wife, Laurie of 31 years; children, Joseph Gardner of Bridgewater, MA and Ishara Gardner of Colchester; a granddaughter, Allura Farnsworth Gardner; two sisters, Teresa and husband Todd Peterson of New Jersey and Patricia and husband Ludeman Eng of Virginia; and numerous extended family members and friends.  Services will be held on Tuesday (Nov. 27th) at the Aurora-McCarthy Funeral Home, 167 Old Hartford Rd., Colchester, beginning with calling hours from 4 – 6 pm followed by the Chapel Service at 6 pm.  Graveside services will be observed 11 am Wednesday (Nov. 28th) at Rose Hill Memorial Park, 580 Elm St., Rocky Hill.  Donations in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society www.cancer.org.  

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