Obituary of Donald Gardiner

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Donald Lloyd Gardiner on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, after a brief illness, with his loving wife and son by his side. Born December 8, 1941, in Sydney, he was the youngest son of the late Lloyd and Pearl (Clements) Gardiner. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Michele (Doucet); son, Adam Glen (Jill); older brother, Ernest George (Lea), Lunenburg; 2 grandsons, Jordan (Sarah) and Dustin, as well as many nieces and nephews. As well as his parents, Don was predeceased by his first wife, Patricia (Weaver) Gardiner, and his sister, Eva (Ben) Dickson. Don served 25 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, with the Royal Canadian Air Force of which he was extremely proud. His trade as a vehicle technician found him serving across most of Canada and in the Middle East. Don worked on everything from aircraft support equipment to his favourite M-109 (a tracked howitzer). In 1985, Don retired and moved “Out on the Mira” in Juniper Mountain. He and Michele lived there for 35 years enjoying all the benefits that living on 10 acres of God’s Country can give you! When Don was diagnosed with dementia in 2020, the decision was made to move to Sydney River, where Don enjoyed the peace and quiet of a warm and friendly neighbourhood. We will remember Don as a man who enjoyed tinkering, from repairing old vehicles to wood working, spending time in the woods gathering firewood, and supporting fellow veterans as needed. Cremation has taken place under the care and direction of T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, 6 Churchill Drive, Sydney, N.S., 902-539-7175. A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. In memory of Don, donations may be made to a veteran’s organization of your choice. Words of condolence may be made to the family by visiting www.tjtracey.com. “At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, We will remember them, We Will remember them.”