Dr. Hugh “David” Dds Gardner

Hugh “David” Gardner passed away peacefully on February 27th, with an abundance of love at his side. David was just shy of his 89th birthday.
David was born in Halifax, NS on April 29th, 1935, to Raymond and Phyllis (Bissett) Gardner.
David lost his mother at a young age. His father Raymond would re-marry Lena (Macomber) Gardner who raised David as her own along with step siblings, Ruth, Robert “Bob”, Shirley and Patricia “Pat”.
David had a voracious appetite for all things hockey, and this would start long before marriage, children and his career as a dentist. David was proud to play for the Owen Sound Greys, Guelph Biltmore’s, Dalhousie Tigers and numerous old timer hockey clubs across Canada. David was truly in his element on the ice with stick in hand. David was a respected coach and hockey player, eventually hanging up his skates at age 84.
David graduated in 1964 from Dalhousie University, School of Dentistry. By the time David completed his degree he would be the proud father to three daughters, this was an admirable feat. Daughter Anne (Doug) Hay would be born in 1961, followed by Heather (Paul) Beaudoin in 1962 and Sandra (George) Kovacs in 1963. Daughter Lisa (John) Hamlin would be born in 1967. David married his partner in life, Jeanette (Matheson) on June 30th, 1960, and would share 58 years of adventure together with their children and 10 grandchildren, Thomas, Alana, Megan, Emma, Hannah, Maya, Ben, Aaron, Patrick and Ryan. This year was extra special with the birth of two great grandchildren, Graham and Levy.
The Gardner’s planted roots over the years in Ottawa, Calgary, Liverpool, Newfoundland, Indian Harbour and Halifax. With David always at the wheel, travelling, skiing, camping, shopping and of course eating, were favorite past times. David would spend the most time however, with the ones he loved including the extended Gardner, Matheson and Macomber families as well as his wide circle of friends.
David was a loyal father, grandfather, mentor, and friend but above all he was a compassionate and supportive husband to his wife Jeanette, whom he cared for until her passing in 2018.
David was truly blessed to have a second chance at love with his companion Joan Horne. Joan’s daughters, Lisa, Shannon and Jacqui, and their extended families embraced David as their own. David and Joan enjoyed traveling, being at the camp, visiting family and friends and sharing their passion for skating and hockey.
David will be truly missed by all those who were blessed to be touched by the depth of his compassion generosity, whimsical humor, zest for life and friendship. At David’s request, there will be no funeral service. A private family gathering will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be made below.