Gartner, John "Jack" and Ruth Hagadorn
STILLWATER — John "Jack" Gartner and his wife Ruth Hagadorn Gartner, both died days apart, on May 27,
2021, and June 1, 2021. Jack died in Rockport, Texas and Ruth died in Corpus Christi, Texas. They were married forty years ago on Valentine’s Day.
Jack was born in Schenectady on February 1, 1942, the son of the late Adam and Betty Overocker Gartner. Ruth was born in Clifton,
N.J. on November 13, 1940, the daughter of the late Kalman and Ruth
Komarony.
Jack served in the U.S. Navy from 1967-71, aboard the USS Hornet CVA 12, referred to as Angels. He participated in the recovery operation of NASA Space mission Apollo 11’s reentry and landing in the Pacific Ocean on July 24, 1969, after Astronauts Armstrong and Aldrin, became the first humans that walked on the Moon, along with Astronaut Collins. President Nixon was also on board the ship to greet these space heroes.
Jack worked for many years leading the safety department of Bendix Corp, while Ruth served a number of years at the Wilton Developmental Center, before both retired young. Jack also worked for the Navigation District tending the entrance gate at Rockport Beach, Texas in his later years.
About 30 years ago, Jack and Ruth sold their home in Wilton and traveled throughout the country, living in their camper for many years. They were members of the Escapees RV Club. During this time, they set roots in Livingston, Texas and later settled in Rockport, Texas.
They were both avid readers. They also enjoyed being rock hounds and were talented in the art of lapidary, cutting and faceting stones and making jewelry. They especially enjoyed the hunt for Herkimer diamonds. Jack was a gifted cabinet maker, wood carver and enjoyed fishing. Ruth was very kindhearted, loved animals, crafts, crocheting and card making.
Jack and Ruth’s survivors include Robert (Deb) Hagadorn, Susan Hagadorn, Lorrie (Darren Peck) Hagadorn and Barbara Morelli, all of Stillwater, John (Carol) Gartner of Clifton Park and Lisa (Joe)
Lynch of Mechanicville, along with 13 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson; siblings, Gloria Miller and Carole "Lollie" Gaudette, and Michael (Beth) Gartner, nieces, nephews and families. Predeceased by grandson Michael Morelli Jr.
A burial service for both, with military honors for
Jack, will be held on Tuesday at 10 a.m. in the Saratoga National Cemetery. Those that wish to attend are asked to assemble at the cemetery entrance at 9:45 a.m.
Remembrances may be made to Disabled American Veterans, your local animal shelter, library, charity of
Veterans, your shelter, library, or charity of your choice in loving memory of Jack and Ruth Gartner.
To leave condolences and for directions visit www. devito-salvadorefh.com