Andrew Gartner Obituary

Andrew Scott Gartner, beloved son of Lois Gartner and the late Joseph Gartner of Glen Ellyn, passed away August 8th in Franklin Park. He was 53. He is survived by his sister Lisa (Jane Tindall) and brother Bryan (Maureen); niece Rebecca and nephews, Joseph and Douglas Gartner. He also leaves behind his friends at Oak Leyden, some of whom he knew for decades. Andy grew up in Glen Ellyn attending Main Street School and the First Congregational Church. He was in a cub scout troop and active in numerous special recreation programs. He was a part of two neighborhoods, the first on Ridgewood Avenue and the second on Hill Avenue, which were a block apart. He and other children from the immediate area inspired their parents to form a pioneering organization for children with special needs, which became part of a national movement in the 1960s. It was still difficult to find the right place for Andy to thrive. After several years of institutions that were unsatisfactory at best, he was chosen to be a part of a new program called Arrise in Oak Park. It was to be a real home, well-staffed and with just a few housemates. They cooked and ate together. They also participated in a sheltered workshop. Oak Leyden later enveloped Arrise. In recent years, Andy was well taken care of. He had an orderly room of his own. The people who worked there truly cared about him. He loved all the holidays. His family visited most weeks to take him out to eat, which was his favorite thing. He was a world class eater and enjoyed walks and rides. A private cemetery service was held in St. Charles and a small memorial was held at the Nevada House in Franklin Park where he had most recently lived. Anyone wishing to donate in Andy's memory may send contributions to Oak Leyden Developmental Services, 411 Chicago Avenue, Oak Park, Illinois, 60302 or to the First Congregational Church in Glen Ellyn at 535 Forest Avenue, Glen Ellyn, Illinois, 60137.