W. John Gardenier (74), died at Saint Lucie Medical Center, Sunday, July 23, 2023, after a short illness.
He spent his childhood farming in Schenectady with his parents and two siblings. John’s early aptitude in mathematics and engineering laid the foundations for a successful life. John joined the Army after high school. He was trained in Germany, and he then served a tour of duty in Vietnam. He was promoted to First Sergeant, and received the following awards: Army Sharpshooter-Pistol; Army Expert Rifle; National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and a Purple Heart. John was fascinated by the intricate design and manufacture of swimming pools and hot tubs after he left the Army.
He was originally employed by Imperial Pools but later left to work as the Plant Manager at Trans Global Container Corp. His love of the pool industry led him to Saratoga Spa Company, where he worked for more than two decades. He joined Thermal Spas in Wallingford, Conn., after moving to Connecticut.
John’s nearly two dozen patents were instrumental in introducing many unique solutions to the swimming pool and spa industries. In these years of creativity, John met his wife of 34-years — Carmen Segovia. John has a passion for educating children and has been instrumental in their education, including his nieces and nephews.
After retiring in 2015, John and his wife Carmen moved to Port Saint Lucie (Florida), where John worked as a consultant for Spa Manufacturer Inc. of Clearwater, Fla. John was appointed Commander of VFW post 10066, Jensen Beach in Florida after he retired. He continued to be active in the VFW up until his death. John was a master woodworker, bowler, and golfer.
John is survived his loving wife Carmen, Step Daughters Mayra Segovia (David Walker), Monica Calle and Julissa Barret (Ron or “Cook”) as well as Granddaughter Gisela. John is also survive by his sister Pam Gardenier, whom John loved and cared about. He was also survived his nephew Daniel Clayton Williams as well as his niece Renee Peer.
John’s instructions were followed and cremation was performed. No memorial service will take place except for VFW members.
