In Loving Memory of Mary Gardiner, Forever in our hearts.
It is with profound sadness and deep love that we share the passing of Mary, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and dear friend. She left this world knowing she was profoundly loved by her family; she leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and boundless compassion.
Mary was the cherished wife of Dave Gardiner. Together, they built a home filled with laughter, warmth, and unwavering love. She was born in Carnlough, Northern Ireland, and immigrated with her family to Canada in 1957. Mary met her husband and settled on the home farm where her and Dave enjoyed over 60 years together. She was a wonderful hostess who cherished family gatherings, enjoying cooking and decorating her home – as well as many others in the community. She was a skilled painter and wallpaper hanger which kept her busy for most of her life until she hung up her roller and put away her ladder.
She is the proud and loving mother of Shauna (Ron Soudant) and Jennifer (Doug Baines), whom she adores beyond measure. Her daughters are her truest joy, her greatest pride and their cherished confidante.
Her love extends even further to her five beautiful grandchildren and their partners — Lexi (Dominik), Presley (Colleen), Jackson (Kristen), Grace, and Everett — each one holding a special place in her heart. Mary became “Mamie” after her first grandchild was born and we have all affectionately called her that since. Mamie never missed a chance to cheer them on, celebrate their milestones, or remind them how deeply they are loved.
Her circle of love continued to expand with her precious great-grandchildren — Elena, and Oliver, children of Lexi and Dominik; and Aubrey, and Kayce, children of Jackson and Kristen. They brought her immeasurable happiness, and she delighted in their laughter, energy and many visits.
Mary leaves behind siblings Stanley Aiken (Sharon) and Ethel Bott (Les) and many special nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents Elizabeth and Andrew Aiken, and oldest brother Andrew.
Mary lived her life with grace, generosity, and an unshakable faith in the goodness of people. She was the heart of our family, guiding us through life with unconditional love, kindness, and strength. We are comforted with knowing she has found peace in heaven with her Lord and Saviour.
Her family will remember her in the simple moments — the smell of her favourite flowers, the sound of her laughter, and the way her love quietly filled every room. Her presence will forever live on in the hearts of us all.
Mary’s visitation will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, 456 Main Street South, Exeter on Wednesday, February 25th from 3 – 6 PM. Where Mary’s funeral service will be held the following day on Thursday, February 26th at 11 am. Interment Roy’s Cemetery
If you are unable to attend the service in person the family invites you to watch the service live or at your convenience by visiting www.facebook.com/haskettfh.
Though she may no longer walk beside us, her love will forever light our way.
“Love never ends — it just finds new ways to embrace us.”
Donations to MSC Canada (ACCTS) would be appreciated by the family.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Ivan and Brenda Hern
Dave, Shauna, Jennifer and families- we were so very sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Presley Soudant
My Mamie,
You were the heart of this family and that is where you will always be. The centre, the glue, the reason; our heart.
I will never not miss you.
Your PJ 🩷
Tom Hartai
Dave and family
On behalf of my family and staff please accept all of our deepest condolences at this very difficult time. Blessings to you and your family.
Shauna Soudant
Mum – I was blessed beyond words to have been your daughter. I will carry you with me forever Mum – in every memory, in every prayer and in every beat of my heart. Love you forever. 🩷🩷🩷
Your Shauna Lee
Andrew Moore
Dave, Shauna, Jennifer and families.
We were saddened to hear of Mary’s home call. I have fond memories of staying with you for 3 weeks in September 2000 to see the farm and corn harvest. You both were very kind and Mary was a wonderful hostess.
Praying for you all at this sad time.
Andrew and Cathy Moore,
Northern Ireland
Bob and Joyce McDonald
Dave, Shauna, Jennifer and families.
Sending our sincere condolences to each of you on the loss of Mary.
Treasure all the memories to help comfort you in the days and months ahead.
Julie Overholt
Shauna and all the Gardiner Family, Mary was such a kind and caring person. Many years ago when my Grandma was near the end of her life, Mary would sit with her to visit, listen and just be present. My condolences to the whole family on your loss. I hope all of the memories you’ve created over the years bring you comfort.
Rudy Jansen
Dave and all your friends and family, my sincere condolences to everyone. Rest in peace Mary. 💔💔
John and Marion Alblas and family
Dave and family
So sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. She was such a lovely person, but she will live on in your hearts.
Our deepest sympathy,
Margo Ducharme
Mary, Mom, Mamie’s voice is as clear as ever in my heart and mind.
It’s easy to both laugh and cry today thinking of so many teenage memories with Jenn (xo) and friends in Mary and Dave’s cozy cranberry-spice smelling home. Mary was always on the go and full of energy for life! And welcomed us all at any hour for as long as we ever wanted. Mary remains forever vibrant in my thoughts of her.
So many hearts and prayers are with you at this time Dave, Jenn, Shauna, Ron, Doug, Lexi, Presley, Jackson, Grace, Everett, Dominik, Colleen, Kristen, and all of the babes and the pup too.
xo Margo
Shelly and Sam Toornstra
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. I have been thinking of all the wonderful memories I have of Mamie and l will always remember her beautiful smile, laugh and all the fun we had together. As I watch the picture slides I see the love she had for each and every one of you. Cherish your beautiful memories of an amazing lady♥️
Ray Jones
Dear Dave and family,
Our hearts are grieved at your loss whist being so happy to know that our dear sister is with the Lord -in His very presence! I trust the following will be a blessing and encouragement to you all.
With much love,
Ray and Carol
Weep not for me!
The 18th.-century Bible commentator Matthew Henry wrote these words that he hoped would be read after his death that he felt might unduly mourn his passing. He wrote:
“Would you like to know where I am? I am in my Father’s house, in mansions prepared for me here. I am safe where I want to be – no longer stormy seas, but in God’s safe, quiet harbour. My sowing time is done and I am reaping; my joy is as the joy of harvest.
Would you like to know how it is with me? I am made perfect in holiness. Grace is swallowed up in glory.
Would you like to know what I am doing? I see God, not as a through a glass darkly, but face to face. I am engaged in the sweet enjoyment of my precious Redeemer. I am singing hallelujahs to Him who sits upon the throne, and I am constantly praising Him.
Would you know what blessed company I keep? It is better than the best on earth. Here are the holy angels and the spirits of just men made perfect….I am with my old acquaintances with whom I worked and prayed, and who have come here before me.
Lastly, would you know how long this will continue? It is a dawn that never fades! After millions and millions of ages, it will be as fresh as it is now. Therefore, weep not for me.”
Will you be there? The Lord Himself wants you there. The Bible says in Luke 19:10 For the Son of man came to seek and to save that which was lost.
Alice and JerryMacLean
To All who loved Mary,we send our condolences .
Heavens gates would open wide for Mary! A beautiful soul! She showed her love to many and so many loved her!She was a special lady,and will be remembered that way.
Rest in peace Mary, you were one of Gods greatest servants here on earth.
Trudy Hodgins
Dom, Lexi and family.
Our condolences on the loss of your grandmother. Take care.
Terry and Trudy Hodgins
Earl and Marilyn Miller
Dave and family, Ethel and Les,
Our deepest sympathy to all of you in the passing of dear Mary. We know she will be greatly missed. We pray that the Lord will bring comfort and strength to you in the days ahead.
Sarah Davies
Dear Jen & family,
I am so sorry for such a heart-breaking loss. Wishing you love & connection in this sad time.
Cindy Aiken
I know I haven’t seen Mary for awhile but we did keep text each other on Facebook. It was our way of keeping in touch. She always had a warm hug and embaraced me into the family. I loved her humour and the love she had for her family and her kind, generous heart. I will miss her. ♥️♥️
John and Ruth Timmermans
Our condolences to the Gardiner family.
Ron & Vurra Martinartin
Dear sweet Mary. We miss her at Exeter Bible Fellowship. Our senior’s enjoyed her loving way.
Our prayer is for healing through her loss to Dave and the family. Heaven has gained a dear Irish lady.
Wendy and Warren Clements
Dave, Shauna and family;
Warren and I offer our sincere condolences on the unexpected loss of Mary. Treasure your memories.
Bev and Garry Kline
Dear Dave, Shauna, Jennifer and families.
Garry and I send you our heartfelt condolences in the passing of Mary. We will always remember her for her smile, her laughter and her kindness. She will be so dearly missed.
Mary Lou Thomson
Through marriage I became a relative and neighbour of Mary’s. More importantly, we shared a friendship based on common interests. I will miss dropping in, catching up with each other and the laughter we shared.
Rest easy my dearest friend, you have earned your just reward!
Sending love & hugs to your whole family from Jack & Mary Lou
John & Arlene Berendsen
Sending our deepest condolences in your family’s loss, now and in the days ahead. Mary’s kindness, warmth and love for her family and others was her strength. Thinking of you all!
Kristen Campbell
Jennifer and Family,
Sending you my condolences and love in this sorrowful time. Your mom sounds like a beautiful person whose light will continue to shine bright on all who loved her.
Tim & Maria Hamather
Dave, Shauna & Ron and family,
We were so sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. Sending you all our deepest sympathies. She was such a kindhearted person and she will be deeply missed.
Sharon Passmore
Dave, Shauna, Jennifer & families. So sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. Her memory will be in your hearts for ever. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Amy McClelland
Sincere condolences to Dave and Family, also Stanley & Ethel’s Family Circle.
I have vivid memories of Uncle Andy and Aunt Elizabeth and their family before they left Northern Ireland in 1957. Our family missed them very much. I think I met you Dave & Mary one time you visited Ireland.
Then James and I came to NS in 1981, but I don’t think our paths crossed since that as our visits home were at different times. Our family spent a memorable night in Aunt Elizabeth’s home when we were in Ontario for a wedding in the early nineties. I did speak with Mary to ask about her mother when she wasn’t well, and she was excited to talk after all those years. Then it was nice to meet her nephew Les & Christine in NS.
Having lost James nine years ago I can sympathize and yet be thankful that they are at Home with the Lord.
Love & prayers.
Amy McClelland. NS.
Arnie and Bev Martin
Dave, Shauna, Jennifer and families, our deepest sympathy to you as you mourn this loss. May God strengthen and heal your hearts.
Barb Eisenschink
Dave & family, my deepest sympathy for you, Mary was a wonderful person & will be missed by many.
Pat & Ron Cottrell
Dave, Shauna and families,
May your many memories give you peace and comfort.
It was a pleasure to help Mary with her decorating needs as a customer of “The Junction” always positive in “good times” and “not so good times”.
A “Mother’s Love” is eternal, it will live forever. Ron & Pat.
Gerry Phillips
Dave, Shauna, Jennifer and family
I am so sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. She was a Godly woman and a wonderful friend. I have many fond memories of your family at the Chapel. Visiting you at your farm and the wonderful trip we had together when our kids were young. I will be thinking and praying for you during this sad time. Mary is with her Saviour. Blessings🙏🏻❤️❤️
Rosemary Morrissey-Gilmore
Dear Shauna and family,
My heart aches for you. I didn’t know your mom personally, but I know she must have been an extraordinary woman to raise someone as genuine and caring as you. I’m so sorry you’re going through this
Ross and Shirley Clark
Dear Dave, Shauna, Jen and family:
Ross and I were so sorry to hear of the passing of Mary. We send our sincerest sympathy, love and prayers. We know she will be missed by all.
Much love.
Peter Warner
Dear Dave and family,
May God’s love surround you during this difficult time.
Sending my heartfelt condolences.
Sincerely, Peter.
Cathy Batten
Dave & Family
I’m so sorry to read that Mary has passed. She was such a warm and friendly person to chat to, and she always took the time to ask how I was doing. She was so special and proud of her Family as well.
Thinking of you all as you cherish the Memories you all have of her. Take care.🌹
Cathy
Rosie Burke
My deepest condolences to you all on the loss of your lovely Mary. I was so sad to hear of her passing. I was very lucky to meet and get to know Mary during my summer visits to Canada in 2014 and 2015. She was a wonderful woman – so warm, kind, generous and fun. It was such a joy to witness the special love and bond she shared with her lovely family. I hope you find moments of comfort during this very sad time. May her gentle soul rest in peace x
Herman & Pam Wulterkens
Dear Jen, we are so sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing.
Our sincerest condolences to you and all your family.
Herman & Pam Wulterkens.
Herman & Pam Wulterkens
Dear Jen, we are so sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing.
Our sincerest condolences to you and all your family.
Herman & Pam Wulterkens.
Sue Wilson
Dave, Shauna, Jennifer and families, heartfelt condolences on your loss of a dear wife and mother. Mary was a lovely lady. Cherish your precious memories. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jeff Borland
Dave and Family
Please accept my condolence in the passing of Mary.
Jeff Borland
Ruth Ann Pickett
Dear Shauna and family:
The Pickett family is saddened to hear of the loss of Mary. I have been best friends with Shauna since kindergarten and I spent a lot of time with the Gardiner family. I have many fond memories of my time spent there and of how Mary was always so kind and fun to be around. She will be greatly missed. You are in our thoughts.
Linda Mills
Dear Dave and the Gardiner family
Sending my sincerest condolences to you and your family. Thinking of you during this difficult time
Linda Mills and family
Tom, Tracy Humphreys and family
Shauna and families
So sorry to hear of your Mary’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Tom,Tracy Humphreys and family
Dalton Ford
Dave; Shauna, Jennifer and Families; So sorry for your loss. I had many fun times and conversations with Mary over the years, her and Brenda were so much fun to work alongside when we would meet up on jobsites during their painting/ papering days. A great lady. Sincere condolences to you all. Dalt
Roger & Darlene Schmidt & Family
Our deepest condolences to Mary’s family.
Mary was such a wonderful person who lit up when her family was around.
Embrace your memories.
Roger, Darlene & Family
Tasha Isaac-McIntyre
Mary was truly a ray of love and light. I have very fond childhood memories of my time spent with ‘Aunt Mary’. Sending love to the Gardiner family. <3
Anne & Ted Kernick
Dave & family,
Sending our sincere sympathy in your loss of Mary.
Our hope is that your memories are a comfort to you in these sad days.
Marg Miller
Dave and entire family. I’m sitting here thinking of the good old days. Thinking of our kids growing up together and staying friends for ever. Mary was wonderful soul inside and out she will certainly be miss by all.
John and Sandy Ulch
Dave and all the Gardiner Family
We were saddened to hear that Mary has passed away. She certainly was a kind and friendly gal. We looked up some pictures of a trip to Mexico that you shared with John a number of years ago. Great memories, and I am sure you have many wonderful ones.
Thinking of you in the days ahead.
Rick and Marilyn Vandenbussche
Dave and family, please accept our sincere condolences on Mary’s passing. Thinking of you.
Jeremy Becker
Sincere Condolences to the Family.
Marilyn (Gardiner) Pritchard
To all of Mary’s Family
Sending my deepest condolences on her passing. Cherish all the beautiful memories you have.
Liz Cottrell-Warren
Shauna and extended family,
May memories warm your hearts, we are so saddened to hear of the passing of your Mom (wife and Mamie). A lovely lady full of love for her family. Thinking of you all.
Love Liz, Derek & family
Mike & Nancy Huber
Dave,
Thinking of you at this difficult time. May you and your family find comfort in your memories and be filled with God’s peace in the days ahead.
Cy& Eleanor Blommaert
To the Gardiner family
So sorry for your loss.
Thinking of you at this sad time.❤️
Tammy East
Shauna and family, you are in our thoughts at this very difficult time.
Jason Bourne
Dave and Family,
I was shocked and saddened to hear of Mary’s passing. She will be missed.
My sincerest condolences to the family.
Bernie Benoit
The Gardiner Family
Please accept our deepest condolences on the loss of your wife, Mom , Grandmother and GGmother.
While I didn’t know her well, her feisty spirit and warm sense of humour is what I remember the most.
The Benoits.
Mary Ruth and Sam
Dave, Shauna, Jennifer and family,
Thank you so much for sending us this news. Our hearts hurt with you, and our prayer is that God’s steadfast love will faithfully sustain you as you go through these difficult days. Although we’ve not seen much of each other in recent years, all our memories of Mary are filled with warmth, laughter and love. She was a blessing to us, and we know that her legacy will continue to bless you and your families as well. Much love.
Jim and Laura MacDonald
Dave, Shauna and Jennifer and families, our heart is so sad for your loss of a wife, mother and grandmother. Mary was a very good friend, someone to lean on for support and help we will miss her. Our deepest sympathy, our prayers and love through this difficult time.
Erv and Irla Steinmann
Dave Shauna and Jenn so sorry to hear of Mary’s passing! Many memories of our times together
Don and Brenda Triebner
I am deeply saddened to hear about Mary. She sure loved her family and when her grandchildren came along she was so proud of them and she loved them deeply. She will be missed in her church and in the community.
Thoughts and Prayers are with you all in the days ahead.
Kathy Heywood
So deeply so sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. My condolences to Dave, Shauna, and Jen. And all her loved ones. RIP Mary!
Mary Conlin
Dave and family, sorry to hear of Mary’s passing.
Al Taylor Bonnie Ratz
Dave and family
Sincere condolences to you at this difficult time. She will be truly missed.
Darlene Stewart
Dear Shauna and Family,
I am so sorry to hear about your Mother’s passing. Mary was a warm, and wonderful lady and will be forever missed by many. You have my deepest condolences…
Edith, Jim, Larry Lewis and family
Dave, and family
So sorry to see Mary’s passing.
She was a lovely talent, friendly person.
Cherish her memories.
Our condolence to you all.
Herman Steen
My deepest condolences to you and your family. My prayers are with you for strength and the Lord’s comfort during this difficult time.
Ivan Triebner
So sorry for your loss Shauna, remember the moments together. Mary was truely a blessing to all who met her
Kimberley Brown
My deepest condolences. She was such a beautiful light, full of kindness and goodness. I am very sorry for your loss.
Grace Gardiner-Baines
I love you, and will miss you everyday.
Evelyn Vincent
Dave, Shauna, Jennifer and family
Sincere Sympathy. Mary was so talented and so loved by many. May God’s peace, strength and comfort surround each of you.
Janet Corbett
Dave, Shauna and Jennifer and family,
So very sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. She was such a kind and caring woman. It was evident that she loved her family deeply.
Praying for all of you as you walk through this loss, may you find comfort and strength from our Lord, and the faith she had and demonstrated.
Much love,
Janet Cowan Corbett
Denise De Vries
Dave and family;
I met Mary through my work at the clinic in Kitchener, and we quickly discovered a shared connection through growing up near Exeter and knowing many of the same families. That bond, shared with Dave, made our relationship feel instantly familiar. Mary’s kindness and warmth will always be remembered.
Susan Moore
Dave and family: I am saddened to hear of Mary’s passing! Thinking of you all …she will be dearly missed! She always carried such joy within her that spread to all she met in her day! P
Karen House
Shauna ,Ron and family
So sorry to hear about your mom’s passing. From your stories I know how much she was apart of your lives.
Cherish those memories 💕
Thinking of u Karen
Dave Frayne and Cathy Cade
To Dave, family and friends
So sorry to learn that Mary has passed away.
Our condolences to all
We hope your memories of her will bring you comfort in the future.
Brad & Anne Mousseau
Dave, Shauna, Jennifer & families sending heartfelt condolences in your loss of Mary. Keeping you in our thoughts & prayers.
Harold Shoemaker
Our deepest condolences to each and every one of ❤️🙏 of you
Harold & Jolene
Shoemaker
vanessa Smily
Dave and Family my deepest sympathies in the loss of Mary my prayer are with you at this time
The Hodgins
Mary always had the brightest smile, most warmest welcome and made you feel at home. We are very sorry for your loss. We hope you find comfort in your memories and in the love surrounding you right now.
Joan Heywood
Dave and families:
My sincere condolences in the loss of Mary. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone. Cherish all the wonderful memories that are so dear to your hearts. Hugs Joan
Melonie Miller
We were sad to hear about Mary … such a good neighbour & store friend. We enjoyed every visit with her. Lexy was with her often. Her family was very important to her & she loved to share stories of them. She will be missed .. hold your memories close to your heart ♥️ & know that many would love to have a “Maimie” in their family …. Hugs Barry & Melonie
Nancy Hodgert
My sincere sympathy
Her smile and kindness will always be remembered
John Rudderham
Sincere condolences to Dave and families.
Brenda MacDonald
I am deeply saddened by the passing of Mary. My sympathy to Dave, Shauna, Jennifer and all of their families.
Ron and Karen Simpson
Dear Dave , Shauna and Jennifer and family , she was a lovely lady and worked hard and was a great cook and entertainer , she really enjoyed the camping trips and portages with her grandchildren , she was very gracious , you all have our deepest sympathy .
Eric and Sue Gerber
Dave and family, we are sorry for the passing of Mary. Our sincere condolences.
Dianne Gerstenkorn Weber
My thoughts and prayers are with you Dave and your family. Remember she will always walk beside you only now unheard and unseen.
Dianne
Myron and Carol Skinner
To Dave and all the family
So sorry for your loss, sincere condolences
Myron and Carol
Kim Mckay
Dave and Shauna and Jennifer
and family I am so sorry to hear about Mary. My heartfelt condolences to you and your families. Sending healing prayers to you. She was a very kind and special lady. I hope your special memories help you through this sad time.
George and Nancy Jane Finch
Our deepest condolences to Dave and family. Our thoughts are with you as you travel through this difficult time but know that your friends are with you on this journey.
Bob & Sharon Pavkeje and family
Sending our sympathy to your family. Mary was a special lady.
Bill & Joanne Hodge
Deepest condolences to the entire family. Mary was a wonderful person and I will really miss her friendship and seeing her every week. The house that’s always full of family will not be the same. Thinking of all of you at this very sad time.
Jackie Riehl
Dave, Shauna, Jennifer and families.
I was saddened to hear about Mary’s passing. I have great memories of her as a wonderful neighbour. I spent many hours babysitting the girls during my teenage years while Mary and Dave were out. I was even able to help her hang wallpaper couple of times. She will definitely be missed. I am keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Hugs
Jackie Riehl