Kenny Gardner
| Kenny Gardner | |
|---|---|
| Born |
Kenneth A. Gardner March 20, 1913 Lake View, Iowa, United States |
| Died | July 26, 2002 (aged 89) Manhasset, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Known for | Singer in Guy Lombardo's band |
Kenny Gardner (Born March 20, 1913 in Lake View, Iowa – July 26, 2002 in Plandome, New York, USA) was an American singer for Guy Lombardo's band, "His Royal Canadians".
Kenneth A. Gardner was born in March 20, 1913 in Lake View, Iowa. He was the son of Norman and May Chambers Gardner, and he had two younger brothers, Robert and Edward. During his teens, Kenny went to Neligh, Nebraska, to live with an aunt and uncle. He attended Creighton University and had part-time jobs at a movie theater and a mortuary. He later moved to California and attended San Diego State College, where he studied engineering.
Gardner was singing on radio as early as 1936, when he was among those appearing on an episode of California Hour. In 1946-1947, he was the male singer on Easy Does It, a quarter-hour daily daytime variety program on the Mutual Broadcasting System.
He joined Guy Lombardo's band in 1940, singing the signature hits, "Enjoy Yourself, It's Later Than You Think" and "Frankie and Johnny". While in the band, he took time out to serve in World War II, where he was wounded and earned two Purple Hearts. After retiring in 1978, a year after Guy Lombardo died, Kenny became more involved in local activities in his longtime Plandome, New York community.
In 1941, Kenny voiced the role of Dick in the animated comedy film, Mr. Bug Goes to Town. He also sang "Where Do We Go From Here" in the film, which was written by Percy Wenrich.
Gardner married the Lombardos' sister Elaine in 1942.
Gardner died on July 26, 2002, at his residence. According to his sister, Gina Lombardo Cudahy, Gardner died from a heart attack after having appendectomy surgery.
Joe Enroughty (Apr 27, 2003). "Kenny Gardner". Singer. Find a Grave.
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