DAVID CALVIN GARDNER

1952 - 2023

GARDNER, DAVID CALVIN August 23, 1952 - March 19, 2023 Dave passed away peacefully, on March 19, 2023, at Southlake Regional Health Centre surrounded by his family. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Cal Gardner (former Toronto Maple Leaf) and Mary Gardner. Loving husband to Marion; beloved brother to Paul (Sherri); the greatest father to Ryan (Christy), Jennifer (Josh) and Matt; and he was a proud grandfather of Eagan, Jada, Beckett and Eli. Growing up in Leaside, Dave was an outstanding young athlete, excelling in hockey, baseball and golf. With the Toronto Marlboros, he won the Red Tilson Trophy as the Ontario Hockey League's most outstanding player, centering one of the greatest lines in junior hockey between Steve Shutt and Billy Harris. After eight successful seasons in the NHL, Dave moved to Switzerland to continue an outstanding hockey career as a player and coach. After hockey, Dave enjoyed a long career with Molson's, creating strong friendships with so many of his colleagues and associates. He loved being part of the Molson team, always there to lead, coach or just listen. He transitioned into the restaurant business as an owner, where he delighted in exploring a new aspect of the food and beverage industry. "Gards," as he was known to all his buddies, was most happy spending time on the golf course or at his restaurant in Aurora, reminiscing and telling stories with his many friends. His most cherished times were spent at his cottage on Lake Scugog with family and friends, boating, skiing or simply cutting the grass. He will be remembered most for his kindness and compassion, and for his willingness to help wherever he was needed. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten. Viewing will be held at Thompson Funeral Home in Aurora on Thursday, March 23, 2023, from 2:00 - 4:00 and 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, March 24, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church in Aurora, with reception to follow the burial at Aurora Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations on behalf of the family can be made to Southlake Foundation or SickKids. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at: www.Thompsonfh-Aurora.com for the Gardner family.