Obituary of Wayne Lee Gardiner

Wayne Lee Gardiner passed away peacefully on December 30, 2024, in Midland, MI at the age of 88. Born on March 17, 1936, in Detroit, Michigan, Wayne was a man of integrity, warmth, and a deep love for his family and country.

Wayne grew up in Roscommon, MI where he met the love of his life, Patricia Alice Coe. They married on November 5th, 1960. They spent most of their lives in Midland, where they raised their family and he became a respected foreman at Dow Chemical. His career spanned nearly 35 years. In addition to his professional endeavors, Wayne was a proud member of the American Legion for 51 years, reflecting his patriotism and community service, which began with his time in the Air Force.

Wayne was a man of many passions, with a particular love for music. He played the guitar with a joy that was infectious, sang with a heart full of soul, and shared his musical talents in a band that brought smiles to many faces. His love for music was matched by his green thumb, as he could often be found tending to his garden, and took pride in having the nicest yard on the road. 

His love for Michigan sports was lifelong, he could often be heard cheering on his Lions, Tigers and any Michigan college team.  He was a master of Cribbage and Euchre, playing with a strategic mind and a mischievous nature. A true animal lover at heart, Wayne's gentle and compassionate spirit was evident in his interactions with all living creatures, and he found great comfort and happiness in their company. He raised many litters of Irish Setters and his home became a haven for countless rescues.

Family was the cornerstone of Wayne's world. He was a loving father to his four children: son, Jeffrey (Annie) Gardiner, and daughters, Julie Gardiner Hof, Jill Gardiner and Janice Gardiner. His legacy continued through his grandchildren, Michael Simanovsky, Erin Sylvester, Tylar Inman, Bryan Inman, Garrett Gardiner, Jackson Gardiner, August Hof, Patrick Hof, and Mitchell Gardiner, as well as his 12 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews who brought him immense pride and happiness. Wayne was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia, sister Margo and daughters, Jill Gardiner and Janice Gardiner whose memories remained close to his heart throughout his life.

As we bid farewell to Wayne Lee Gardiner, we celebrate the remarkable man he was and the extraordinary life he led. The family will be spending time together to pay tribute to his memory. They invite those who knew Wayne to hold him in their hearts and to remember the melodies he played, the gardens he cultivated, and the games he won with a smile. Wayne's journey through life was a melody of its own, a tune that will continue to play in the hearts of his loved ones forever.

Per Wayne’s wishes no service will be held and he will be privately cremated and laid to rest next to his beloved wife.  To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com  Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.

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