Ernest Gardina

Ernest Gardina, 78, of Meridian, passed away on Wednesday, March 10, 2021.

He was born Jan. 7, 1943, in Natrona Heights, and was the son of the late Frank and Ruth Gardina.

Ernest graduated from Har-Brack High School in 1960.

He enlisted in the U.S. Army at age 17 and served in Korea as a U.S. Army equipment repair engineer, until he was honorably discharged.

Ernest retired from Allegheny Ludlum after 34 years, then worked for Am-Gard security for several years.

He was an avid race car builder for 58 years, raced at several local dirt tracks and was the owner of Blanket Hill Speedway for five years. He was also very active with the Drum and Bugle Corps, most notably with the Tarentum Red Knights.

Ernest is survived by his wife, Kathleen Gardina.

He was the father of Mellissa Gardina of Vandergrift, Max (Courtney) Gardina of Sarver, and Matthew (Dawn) Gardina of Leechburg.

He was the grandfather of Nicholas, Mollie, Addyson, Grace and Matthew Gardina.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his twin brother, Jean.

GARDINA — Arrangements for Ernest Gardina, who died Wednesday, March 10, 2021, are under the direction of SPENCER D. GEIBEL FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, 140 New Castle Road, Butler.Burial will be held privately at Butler County Memorial Park.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to local American Legion and VFW posts to help with veteran funerals.Please visit www.spencerdgeibel.com.