Obituary of Robert John 'Bob' Gardiner

GARDINER: Robert John “Bob” – A resident of Blenheim and formerly of Erieau, Bob Gardiner passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Tuesday, March 26, 2013. Born in Harwich Township 73 years ago. Dear son of Gladys (nee Drury) and the late Percy “Mac” Gardiner (1985). He will be sadly missed by his wife of 52 years, Sandy Gardiner (nee Attewel). Loving father of Doug Gardiner and his wife Janice of Blenheim and Leanne and Dennis Reid of Chatham. Proud grandfather of Tawnya Henderson (fiancé Cody Voros) of Peterborough, Nichole Doyle (fiancé Jeff Christo) of Chatham, Jennifer Gardiner of Blenheim and Jessica Gardiner of Blenheim. Great-grandfather to Kylar Thomas and Cooper Christo. Dear brother to Jim Gardiner (Cheryl) of Blenheim, Bill Gardiner (Joyce) of Erie Beach, Donna Richardson (Bruce) of Chatham, Ruth Francis (late Ron) of Chatham, Wayne Gardiner (Barb Parker) of Chatham and the late Darlene Gardiner. He retired in 1996 after serving 30 years with Navistar International Truck as Customer Relations Manager. Bob was very active in municipal politics, having served as Councillor and Reeve for many years. In 1976, Bob was elected the youngest warden to ever serve in Kent County and the first warden from Erieau. He was also a strong promoter of tourism, having served as President of the Kent Tourist Association and received an award in 1974 for dedicated service. He was the founding President of the South Western Ontario Travel Association. He continued to serve his community as a core member of the Chatham-Kent Planning Advisory Committee. Former member of the Rondeau Rod and Gun Club and Blenheim Kent Lodge #274 Masonic. He was an avid traveler and thoroughly enjoyed hunting and fishing. Family will receive friends at the Funeral Home, 141 Park Street, Blenheim on Thursday from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. A Masonic Lodge Service will be held on Friday at 1:00 p.m. A Funeral Service will be held at the Funeral Home at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, March 29, 2013 with the Rev. David Fuller officiating. A private interment will be held at Evergreen Cemetery at a later date. Donations made in memory of Bob to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Parkinson Society of Canada would be appreciated. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com, McKinlay Funeral Home, 141 Park Street, Blenheim, Ontario, 519-676-3451.