Malad - Cole James Gardner, 50, of Malad, Idaho passed away tragically while doing what he loved, Thursday April 29, 2010, in the desert of Nevada while drilling a well. Cole was born January 8, 1960 in Malad, ID to Bernard and Betty Kay Gardner.

He married Lori in 1982 and instantly took on the role of being a proud dad to Tyson. Together they were blessed with two girls, Rainie and Colbie. He also loved his grandchildren Riley, Shayla, Dakota, and AJ.

Cole graduated from Malad High School and attended ISU.

Cole was proud to be a 4th generation water well driller. His work was not only legendary in Idaho and the surrounding states but as far as Hawaii, Guam and Palau. Cole lived for the challenge of finding water where no one else could. His wife often teased him he had water running through his veins. His witching tools were really like magic wands, though he never told anyone. One of his many accomplishments was buying his drilling rigs.

He was always spontaneous and unpredictable. He enjoyed fishing, painting and traveling. He had a big heart and was willing to give anyone the shirt off his back. Not only this, but his caring and genuine personality made him friends everywhere he went.

Cole was preceded in death by his mother and father, and older brother Jason Charles Gardner. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, children, and grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, May 6, 2010 at 12:00 noon in the Horsley Funeral Home, 132 W. 300 N. Malad, Idaho. Friends may visit with the Gardner family on Thursday morning from 10:30 - 11:45 a.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow in the Malad City Cemertery.
Condolences may be sent to www.horsleyfuneralhome.com The family requests that donations be made to the Cole Garner Trust account that is set up under Tyson Christensen's name at Ireland Bank, 33 Bannock St, Malad, Idaho, 83252.