April 10, 2022
April 10, 2022
I remember as if it were yesterday the first time I heard about the amazing Jim Gardner. I was in the office of the Constitutional Law Quarterly at Hastings College of the Law in San Francisco and Lynda had just finished talking with him on the telephone. I recall her telling me with such excitement, pride and definitely love of this wonderful person she had met. Since Lynda has always been a very serious person, I knew that only someone truly remarkable would be able to capture her heart. And I learned later that Jim Gardner was truly extraordinary in every respect -with his utter brilliance, mixed with such an immense curiosity about everything, his probing analysis of complex issues, his amazing facility for languages and his unmatched zest for life - all combined with such gentleness, warmth and laughter. Although he was always truly, the smartest person in the room, he never made others feel inadequate; he was always so gracious and kind. I remember one particular time together, when we were having dinner together at our house in Mirabel, when Jim told us about his thoughts on meeting Lynda. He told us that on meeting Lynda, he imprinted on her “like a duck” and that after meeting Lynda he knew there would never be anyone else for him. It was for both of them, as the French say, le coup de foudre.
Over the years, it was Dennis and my good fortune to be able to spend so many wonderful times with Lynda and Jim in Portland, Ashland, Italy and France. Our very last evening together was in Moderna at the world’s best restaurant! The Gardners always knew how to enjoy life by finding the best that life could offer! We came away from that dinner, as we did every time we were with them, knowing that this was no ordinary couple, but a truly extraordinary team. By their friendship, our lives have been enriched enormously and we will always owe them both a huge debt of gratitude.
We shall miss Jim always but what a gift of so many happy memories he has left those of us who had the good fortune to have him as a friend. Love to you always Lynda. What a terrific choice you both made so many years ago. Donna and Dennis
Over the years, it was Dennis and my good fortune to be able to spend so many wonderful times with Lynda and Jim in Portland, Ashland, Italy and France. Our very last evening together was in Moderna at the world’s best restaurant! The Gardners always knew how to enjoy life by finding the best that life could offer! We came away from that dinner, as we did every time we were with them, knowing that this was no ordinary couple, but a truly extraordinary team. By their friendship, our lives have been enriched enormously and we will always owe them both a huge debt of gratitude.
We shall miss Jim always but what a gift of so many happy memories he has left those of us who had the good fortune to have him as a friend. Love to you always Lynda. What a terrific choice you both made so many years ago. Donna and Dennis