The life of Harrison “Buddy” Gardler, whose teaching and coaching career spanned five decades, mostly at Cardinal O’Hara High School, was celebrated recently with a funeral service at O’Hara, writes John Knebels for CatholicPhilly.com.

Gardler, 72, of Springfield, was an English and history teacher, as well as the boys basketball coach at O’Hara for 32 years from 1976-2008.

At the time of his retirement, he held the most coaching victories (560) in Catholic League history, a record that has since been surpassed by another legend, St. Joseph’s Prep coach Speedy Morris.

Prior to coming to O’Hara, Gardler taught and coached basketball for seven years at Bishop Kenrick High School in Norristown. He also spent one season as an assistant coach at American University in Washington, D.C.

Gardler was a graduate of Monsignor Bonner High School and Saint Joseph’s University.

“In 1976, Bud Gardler welcomed me into the coaching profession as the junior varsity coach at O’Hara,” said SJU coach Phil Martelli, one of Gardler’s eulogists. “He introduced me to many ideas and people who would shape my thinking and challenge me to grow. I am forever grateful to Bud for the guidance and, most especially, for the lifelong friendship.”

Read more about Buddy Gardler from CatholicPhilly.com by clicking here.

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