CAF Hall of Famer Ronnie Gardner Remembered as a Warbird Legend and Mentor
Dallas, Texas - (May 6, 2025) - The Commemorative Air Force is mourning the loss of one of its most revered members, CAF Col Ronnie Gardner, a CAF Hall of Fame inductee whose life was dedicated to flight, faith, and friendship. Gardner passed away on May 2, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of extraordinary skill, humility, and generosity.
Born and raised in Lubbock, Texas, Ronnie Gardner fell in love with aviation during his college years. After graduating from Texas Tech in 1967, he began his aviation career as a civilian flight instructor for the U.S. Air Force and later worked as a corporate pilot in the Dallas area. In April 1970, he joined the Confederate Air Force—now known as the Commemorative Air Force—marking the beginning of a remarkable 50-year tenure with the organization.
A highly accomplished aviator, Gardner flew in more than 30 different aircraft types and held 65 type ratings on his pilot certificate. He was also an FAA Designee and Specialty Aircraft Examiner, providing check rides for warbird type ratings. His career as a commercial pilot spanned several major carriers, including Metro Airlines, American Eagle, and Flexjet.
CHeck out this video of Ronnie Gardner's Induction into the CAF Hall of Fame in 2020
Gardner's talents took him to high-profile roles, including serving as a flight engineer aboard the B-29 FIFI in the 1980 television film Enola Gay: The Men, the Mission, the Atomic Bomb. He was also among the elite group of CAF pilots who participated in TRANSPO 72, a major international transportation exposition held in Washington, D.C.
More than just a skilled pilot, Gardner was a gifted teacher and mentor. He trained countless CAF members, generously sharing his knowledge and experience to help preserve the flying legacy of vintage military aircraft. Known for his humble nature, he often flew photo missions that resulted in some of the most iconic air-to-air images in CAF history—all while choosing to remain behind the scenes.
He was deeply involved with several aviation museums and airshows across the country, flying with organizations such as the Lone Star Flight Museum and Cavanaugh Flight Museum. His contributions to aviation and the CAF extended well beyond the cockpit.
Gardner was equally devoted in his personal life. A devout Christian and active member of his church, he was known for his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith. He is survived by his beloved wife, Ruby, with whom he shared 44 years of marriage.
As the CAF community reflects on his life, Ronnie Gardner’s legacy continues to soar—carried by the many lives he touched, the aircraft he loved, and the skies he helped others to reach.
