Darrin Gartner

Darrin S. Gartner, 57, of Lincoln Park, passed away unexpectedly on October 29, 2025, at his residence.

He was the husband of Julie A. (Frazier) Gartner. They were married on May 6, 1995, and enjoyed over 30 years of marriage.

Born in Sharon, PA he was the son of George M. Gartner of Wyomissing and Pereane (Bonaquest) Stewart, married to Richard of Port Orange, FL.

Darrin was a graduate of Kennedy Christian High School, Hermitage, PA in 1986; Thiel College, Greenville, PA in 1990; and the Reading Police Academy in 1993.

An accomplished wrestler, Darrin was Kennedy Christian's first state runner up in the heavyweight division in 1986. He wrestled in college including a tour of Russia. He was also a proud member of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity at Thiel College.

Darrin dedicated his life to law enforcement. He was an officer for the Exeter Township Police Department for 30 years, most recently serving as a Sergeant. He was a decorated canine officer for 20 years with his partners, Manto and Mako. Darrin was heavily involved in the Fraternal Order of Police and the Exeter Township Police Officers Association, serving as treasurer for both organizations.

Darrin's commitment to the community extended beyond his official duties as a police officer. He was an integral operations director for M&G Security serving communities all over Berks County. Beyond Berks County, he was proud of his work with Law Enforcement United for the last six years. In Exeter, Darrin often volunteered for Hayrides, Trick-or-Treat, Shop with a Cop, Santa Parades and more.

In addition to his wife and parents, he is survived by his daughter, Alexandra P. (Ryan) Brunner of Robesonia, his sister, Kelly A. (David) Ifft of Melissa, TX, two nieces Bailey Ifft and Jennifer Johnson and three nephews, Andrew and Nathan Ifft and Sam Frazier.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. with services to begin promptly at 2:30 p.m. at Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc., West Reading. Burial will follow at Forest Hills Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Berks Lodge 71 FOP Scholarship Fund; PO Box 190, Temple, PA 19560 or Exeter Township Police Officers Association; 4975 DeMoss Rd, Reading PA 19606. Condolences may be expressed at kuhnfuneralhomes.com.