David Gardner | 1954 - 2025

Dave Gardner was more than a leader in the water industry—he was a steadfast advocate, a mentor, and a friend. Beginning his career at WaterPro in 1977, Dave dedicated himself to ensuring that communities had access to clean and reliable water. His efforts were instrumental in modernizing water infrastructure, from transitioning to pressure irrigation to pioneering a hydroelectric generator that made water treatment more sustainable. His influence was tangible in every pipeline, pump station, and water main he helped build.

In 2010, Dave brought his experience and passion to our board of directors, where he championed the interests of private non-profit water systems, ensuring they had a voice at the table. His deep knowledge and unwavering dedication made him an invaluable advocate at the state legislature, where he worked tirelessly on water system issues. From 2019 to 2020, he served as our Board President, leading with wisdom, humility, and a relentless commitment to progress.

But beyond the technical expertise and leadership, Dave was known for his kindness. He had a way of bringing people together, whether it was mentoring young professionals, educating children about water conservation, or simply offering a helping hand when it was needed. Those who had the privilege of working with him remember his cooperative spirit, his quiet determination, and the way he made every challenge feel surmountable.

Dave’s legacy is not just in the systems he built, but in the people he inspired. His passion for water, his dedication to service, and his kindness will be deeply missed but never forgotten.