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James Gardner departed this life at his home in Ganges Nov. 17, 1912, at the advanced age of 84 years and 5 days.

Mr. Gardner was born in Cumseskin, Lanarkshire, Scotland, Nov. 12, 1828.

He was married to Miss Vere Russell in Glasgow, Scotland, August 22, 1859. They began their home life in England.

Later they crossed the deep waters, taking their two children, James and Margaret, and located in Canada. Eight years after they moved to the United States and settled in Ganges township, first on the lake shore, afterwards moving onto a farm about three miles east. At first, after moving away from the lake, Mr. Gardner engaged in the lumber business, operating what was know as the Phillips mill. This closing up, he associated himself with a basket factory, which business was successfully conducted but finally closed up and the machinery moved to Cadillac. The remainder of Mr. Gardner's business life was devoted to farming and fruit culture. Here too his foresight and business tact was amply rewarded by large yields of fruit and products of the farm.

Several years ago he was called to sustain the loss of his devoted companion, and before that some of their children had been taken from the home so that altogether Mr. Gardner knew what affliction meant. From a child he had been taught the religious faith of his ancestors and grew up a devoted christian and member of the Presbyterian church. A few years ago he united with the M. E. church and remained loyal to the last.

Of quite a large family of children there remain to morn his loss, William R. and Vere of Ganges, Robert D. of Brittain, South Dakota, and George of Copemish.

The funeral services were held from the family residence Tuesday after noon at 2 o'clock, Rev. J. W. Buell officiating, assisted by Rev. Samuelson. Interment was made in the Fennville cemetery.