Jessie Marie Gardiner

Jessie Marie Whitmore Gardiner of Salem, Utah, passed away at home with family by her side on September 24, 2011, after a courageous battle with breast cancer. Jessie lived life to the fullest and she did it on her own terms. Ever the outdoors woman, she skied, ran and hunted like there was no tomorrow. Throughout her life Jessie was an avid ski enthusiast, from being a competitive downhill skier to a cross-country skiing judge in the 2002 Olympic games to a ski instructor. She enjoyed white-water rafting, photography, and gardening. Jessie graduated from Mt. Whitney High School in Visalia, California, and earned a BA in Forestry from Humboldt State College in California. Later on she earned a Masters in Psychology from Chico State College in California. Later in life she found a partner to share her passions with. On April 7, 2001, Jessie married James B. Gardiner of Salem, Utah. They had ten wonderful years together enjoying horseback riding, hunting, fishing and all that nature has to offer. Although she never had children of her own, she had a great love of teaching and encouraged children to reach for the stars. As a step-grandmother of a special needs child, she jumped at every opportunity to learn and grow from the experience. In her unique way, she took it one step further and became a substitute teacher for special needs children with the Nebo School District. Now that there is no tomorrow she'll rest in the knowledge that she used her time well. Her energy, commitment, and dedication have enriched countless lives that will continue to spread what she gave. She will be missed by all who were blessed to know her. Jessie is survived by her loving husband James B. Gardiner; her mother Leda Whitmore; sisters Sherry Whitmore, Patricia Kling, Lee Kirsch; a niece and nephew; three step-children; and three beautiful step-granddaughters. A viewing will be held Tuesday, September 27, 2011, from 6:00-8:00 pm at Walker Family Mortuary, 187 South Main, Spanish Fork and at the church on Wednesday from 10:45 -11:45 am prior to the services. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, September 28, 2011, at 12:00 LDS Tenth Ward, 160 S 460 W, Salem.