Canute, OK - Clarence "Leon" Gardner, 86, of Canute, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2025. Born on November 22, 1938, in Woodward, Oklahoma, Leon was the son of Clarence A. Gardner and Exia C. Garrett Gardner.

A proud graduate of Woodward High School's Class of 1957, Leon went on to earn his bachelor's degree from Wichita State University, where he was a member of the ROTC Air Force Band. His love for music began early, starting with his first job at Carpenter Music. That passion carried through his life as he went on to teach band in Horton, Kansas, and Laverne, Oklahoma.

In 1977, alongside his beloved wife Patti, Leon opened Gardner Music Company in Woodward. Together, they nurtured a legacy of music and community service until his retirement in 2006.

Leon had a wide array of hobbies that reflected his energetic and generous spirit. He loved playing music, fishing, storm chasing, tuning pianos, and restoring the family lake house at Foss Lake. He found joy in simple things, like riding his mower and helping friends with their lawns.

Leon was deeply involved in the Woodward Elks Lodge, where he was honored to serve as Exalted Ruler and later as Oklahoma State Exalted Ruler. His leadership and dedication left a lasting mark on the organization and the many lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Patti Gardner; his parents, Clarence and Exia Gardner; and his in-laws, Cecil and Faith Preston.

Leon is survived by his sister Lorene Witt, who cherished her brother. He is also survived by his children: Dennis (Donita) Gardner, Alan (Mick) Gardner, Bryan Gardner, Jeffory Beadles, Brad (Dixie) Beadles, and Gigi Allen (Jimmie); and by his cherished grandchildren: J. Scott Gardner, Myca Gardner, Kina Townsend Lynn (Rickey), Kaleb (Logan) Townsend, Josh (Lacey) Adcock, Alex (Shelby) Adcock, Mason Adcock, Sydney Anna Beadles, and Preston Beadles.

He is also survived by his great-grandchildren: Jaxon Townsend, Raiden Townsend, Chanlee Adcock, Mylee Adcock, Fynlee Adcock, Nash Adcock, Braylee Garrett, Nash Garrett, Axl Adcock, Atlas Adcock, Culder Adcock, Rylee Herriman, Stella Gardner, Jamson Gardner, London Fletcher, Addison White, and Rylan White.

Special nieces Kathleen Nichols, Christi Witt Powers, and Lana Witt-Fugh also held a dear place in Leon's heart, and he in theirs.

Leon Gardner will be remembered for his unwavering kindness, his love of music, and his deep commitment to family and community. His life was a melody of service, joy, and love that will echo in the hearts of all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held at Foss Lake at a later date. Kiesau-Lee Funeral Home, out of Clinton, OK will provide the service information when it's available.