Obituary of Thomas J. Gardiner

Thomas J. Gardiner was born in Toledo, Ohio on August 30, 1941. He was one of six children born from the union of James and Mary (Eisenbrandt) Gardiner. Thomas married the love of his life, the former Mary Kremnetz, on February 1, 1964 and the happy couple was blessed with the birth of three sons.

Thomas's professional journey began humbly behind the wheel of a truck for Mead Containers. For Thomas, work was not just a means to support his family, but a source of genuine joy and fulfillment. He found pleasure in his labor and worked diligently seven days a week. After years on the road, Thomas’s ambition led him to establish his own business, Tom Gardiner and Son Water Hauling. His commitment to quality and customer service turned it into a thriving enterprise.

Beyond his professional realm, Thomas had a profound love for the University of Michigan football team. Saturdays weren’t merely a day of rest; they were transformed into grand celebrations. Every game day, Thomas’s home burst with the energy of friends, family, and fellow fans, all brought together by his contagious enthusiasm. His legendary game-day parties were marked by copious amounts of food, camaraderie, and an abundance of blue and gold pride.

Thomas also looked forward to his salmon fishing trips near Ludington, Michigan, where he could momentarily escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life and bond with his closest friends.

Thomas's love for food was another defining trait. His family fondly remembers the hearty meals he enjoyed, often eating until he was stuffed.

Thomas James Gardiner, age 82, of Erie, passed away at 8:11am, on Thursday, July 18, 2024, while under the care of Kingston Care Center, Sylvania. His passing was preceded by his parents; his wife of fifty-seven years: Mary in 2021; and two brothers: Ron Gardiner and Jerry Gardiner.

Left to cherish his memory are his three sons: Thomas (Linda) Gardiner, Jr., James (the late Wendy) Gardiner, Steve Gardiner; five grandchildren: Thomas (Sarah) Gardiner, III, Todd (Janel) Gardiner, James Gardiner, Jr., Timothy (Cheyenne) Gardiner, Bryce Gardiner; eight great grandchildren; three siblings: Jeff (Donna) Gardiner, Peggy Miller, Patty Wright; and a sister-in-law: Betty Kremnetz.

Friends may gather on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, from 3:00pm until 8:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, Erie; 9156 Summit Street, Erie, Michigan 48133 (734) 317-7199. A Rosary service, recited by Deacon Kenneth Trabbic will take place at 6:00pm, also at Merkle’s. Thomas will lie in state at 10:00am on Thursday, July 25, 2024, until a Mass of the Resurrection at 11:00am at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church; 8330 Lewis Avenue, Temperance, Michigan 48182. A procession to St. Joe’s Cemetery, Erie will immediately follow the Mass.

In honor of Thomas’s memory, the family invite all who knew him to don their blue and gold attire. This symbolic gesture represents not just his love for the University of Michigan but the colorful, vibrant life he led.

Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.