Julian "JJ" Gartner (November 6, 1930 - October 27, 2024) died peacefully on the afternoon of October 27th with his wife Ruth by his side.
Julian "JJ" was born in Upham, North Dakota to parents John and Bertha Gartner. He was one of five children. His family moved to Salem, Oregon in 1934. JJ graduated from Salem High School in 1948 and then joined the US Navy, serving 24 years and retiring in 1972. In 1951 he married the love of his life, Ruth Bower. They enjoyed 73 wonderful years of marriage together and were rarely apart. JJ was a lifelong parishioner and active member of Saint Mark Lutheran Church in Salem. JJ was an extraordinary man who was known and loved for his wonderful sense of humor, and happy and contagious spirit. He was always there for his family and friends to lend a helping hand, and always interested in what you were up to in your life. He enjoyed spending time with his family, telling jokes, playing cards, bowling, deer hunting, and watching football.
JJ is survived by his loving wife Ruth; his daughter Linda of Salem and his son Steven of Ridgefield, Washington. He is also survived by his granddaughter Amanda Horn and her husband Troy of Salem, and great-grandson Tommy. JJ was preceded in death by his parents, sister Viola "Vi", and brothers Melvin "Butch", Iven, and Floyd.
Services will be held on Wednesday, November 6th at 1:00 p.m., Saint Mark Lutheran Church, 790 Marion Street in Salem.