This article was written by Suzanne Sickler Ohl, an early member of the Tyrone Area Historical Society.  It was first published in February 1993.

            As the Blair County community recognizes the achievements of Gardner Candies as a business concern, the Tyrone Area Historical Society recognizes the contributions made by Nancy and Tony Black to the Tyrone area community.

            Gardner Candies was founded by James A. “Pike” Gardner in 1897.  Nancy learned that the candy store business at an early age.  As a young girl growing up, when other high school friends would be enjoying leisure activities, Nancy would be found behind the Gardner Store peanut counter in the evenings and on Sunday afternoons.

            When Pike Gardner died, Nancy and brother Jim inherited the candy and nut business.  In time Nancy and husband assumed ownership of the candy business to which Nancy devoted the rest of her life.  Like her father she taught her children the value of hard work and involved them in the family business.

            As a member of the Tyrone community which she loved, Nancy gave unselfishly of her time and energy.  She was a leader in the revitalization of downtown Tyrone.  In the spring, when the trees along 10^th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue are in bloom, many Tyroners remember Nancy and give thanks for all she did.

            Tony, like his mother, grew up in the family business and in community service.  As a young boy he was a familiar sight riding on the fire trucks to save different sections of the town.

            When he and his wife, Rose, purchased the business following his mother’s death, they followed along in Nancy’s footsteps.  Tony gave back to Tyrone his love and help in numerous ways.  He was the first to volunteer on any project.  He was generous to a fault in demonstrating his concern for his friends and business co-workers.  Everyone who knew Tony was his friend – and also many who didn’t know him.  He loved his children and looked forward to the time when they could become active in the business.

            And so to Nancy and Tony the Historical Society pays tribute.  As family members, parents, friends, and community benefactors they set as example of which we all can be proud.  They left a rich heritage to be passed on to future generations.  People like Nancy and Tony are reasons why we are “Tyrone Proud.”