Thomas Ray Gardner Jr.
Deer Park, WA
Thomas “Tommy” Ray Gardner Jr., 36, of Deer Park, WA, passed away unexpectedly on June 28, 2025, in a hiking accident near Priest Lake, Idaho.
Thomas “Tommy” Ray Gardner Jr., 36, of Deer Park, WA, passed away unexpectedly on June 28, 2025, in a hiking accident near Priest Lake, Idaho.
Tommy was born in Spokane in 1988 to Tom Sr. and Janet Gardner. He spent his youth exploring the mountains, fishing with his grandfather, and playing football at Deer Park High School.
After high school, he attended Eastern Washington University and earned a degree in Outdoor Recreation. He was the founder of Inland Northwest Adventure Co. and a certified wilderness guide, leading hundreds of people on safe and memorable backcountry trips.
Tommy is survived by his wife Rachel, son Wyatt (5), daughter Eliza (2), and parents Tom Sr. and Janet. He was a devoted family man and a fierce friend, known for his bear hugs and big laugh.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 13, 2025, at Riverside State Park – Bowl & Pitcher Shelter, with a slideshow, storytelling circle, and potluck BBQ. In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Wyatt & Eliza Gardner Memorial Fund are deeply appreciated.