David Gard

David Melcher Gard, a longtime resident of New Mexico passed on May 30, 2019 at the age of 80 at his beloved home in Ranchos de Taos, New Mexico Dave was born in Barberton, Ohio in 1938 to Leavitt and Mary Helen Gard. He graduated from Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, and served in the U.S. Army, as a Tank Commander in the Armored Car Division. His life was most shaped by his affection for New Mexico. He spent his summers as a Boy Scout at Philmont Ranch, Cimarron, NM and eventually as a Philmont Ranger and Philmont Staff Association President from 1990 to 1995. This resulted in a permanent move to Albuquerque, whereupon he met his wife, Beverlee, while at their first jobs at Public Service Co of NM (PNM). His career in Human Resources Management included positions at PNM, EG&G, a diversified and Rust Tractor, Caterpillar Dealer, all in Albuquerque. His passion for working with organizations that help young people grow into responsible adults continued and he worked with the Chaparral Girl Scout Council in Albuquerque serving as a board member and as Council President. He also served as director of the Junior Achievement Program in addition to his Philmont Ranch contributions of the heart. Dave and Beverlee retired in 2001 at Ranchos de Taos, NM, volunteering for various projects such as the BLM Ranger station in Pilar, NM. Dave will be remembered as incredible husband, brother, friend and mentor. He will certainly remain in our thoughts and hearts forever, Besides his wife of 53 years, Dave is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Julie and Bill Steplowski of Rio Rancho, and his brother, John Gard of California. He is predeceased by his parents and another brother, Paul Gard. Memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 08, 2019 at 2 PM at Rivera Chapel in Taos. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in the name of David M. Gard, Philmont Staff Association, Dollie O'Neill, 17 Deer Run Road, Cimarron, NM 87714. . Arrangements by Rivera Family Funeral Home. To share a memory, please visit our website at www.riverafuneralhome.com