Signe Gardo

July 19, 1941 - December 25, 2023

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina - Signe Louise Gardo passed away on Christmas morning, December 25, 2023 at the Preston Rehabilitation Center on Hilton Head Island, SC almost seven weeks following surgery for a thoracic aortic dissection on November 10.

Signe was born on July 19, 1941 to Robert and Helen Eastman in Guilford, Connecticut. Signe has lived on Hilton Head Island since 1966 and before retiring at the end of 2022, she had established her Signe's Heaven Bound Bakery Cafe which became a Hilton Head Island landmark renowned by numerous regional and national publications plus television's Food Network.

Signe is survived by her husband of 46 years, Tom Gardo; daughter Silja Meier Burns, stepdaughters Jessica Gardo Maples and Michelle Gardo Mattingly plus four loving grandchildren and Goddaughter.

Signe was predeceased by her oldest daughter Marisa Meier Moss.

A Memorial "Celebration of Life" service will be held Saturday, January 6 at 10:30 a.m. at Christian Renewal Church at 95 Gardner Drive on Hilton Head Island, SC. A reception will follow at St. Luke's Church at 50 Pope Avenue on Hilton Head. Signe will be laid to rest at a private family gathering later in the day at Six Oaks Cemetery & Park in Sea Pines. www.Keithfuneral.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Island Packet on Jan. 4, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Signe Gardo

10 Entries

Sherry Nelson

May 26, 2024

I´m sorry to hear of Signe´s passing. I have fond memories of working for her at Signe´s Deli World in the 70´s.

Lynn Poulin Blair, Viera, Fl 32955

February 23, 2024

I just learned of my friend and neighbor from guilford Connecticut. I visited her twice at the bakery in the last three years, and was so happy to see her buzzing around with her colorful socks and sandals, and is spry as could be. I am so so sad for her family, and those of us that loved her, rest in peace my dear friend Lynn Poulin Blair

Jeff Wilson

February 21, 2024

Tom and " ladies" We have been away from HHI for an extended period and didn´t know of this until recently. We are so sorry for your loss and the loss for Hilton Head. Being one of the pioneers, I have known Signe and the family for almost 50 years. We will miss her. Jeff/ Gerri Wilson

Patricia Dines

January 6, 2024

I'm so sorry to hear of Signe's passing. And so grateful to have known her. I had my first official job with her back when she had her place in Sea Pines, and she was so kind and supportive, it was so good for me. I saw her again maybe 10 years ago, and she remembered me, and her heart and kindness was still the same. I'm so glad that we had that chance to connect.... Sending her blessings for a life well-lived... And.... I'm hoping that she did indeed write her promised cookbook. I've never had chocolate chip cookies that tasted as good as hers.... Blessings to you sweetie.....

Catherine Anderson

January 6, 2024

Dear Tom, Michelle, Jessica, and Silja - I never knew Signe, but I know Michelle, and so I have a glimpse of how wonderful Signe was. You are in my thoughts and prayers today and you will remain there in the weeks to come. Love, Catherine Anderson

Linda Roberts

January 5, 2024

My deepest sympathy and love to you Tom and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you. So sad that you lost her only a year after retiring. She was a talented, hard working and beautiful soul. God speed.

Rob reichel

January 5, 2024

What an amazing Godly woman who touched so many lives because of her servant heart - will so miss her smile every time I saw her - blessings to Tom and all of her family!

Sarah Teitelbaum

January 4, 2024

Signe to me was a mentor and angel in plain clothes. Working and learning from her help make me the chef baker I am,so grateful and blessed to have her as a part of my life. I will talk to her in my prayers cause I know she is in heaven looking over all she touched. To an amazing soul. Love Sarah Teitelbaum-Cook

Helen Fell

January 4, 2024

I have fond memories of Signe and her family. Her girls took lessons from John and enjoyed many trips to her bakery. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Freida Meredith

January 3, 2024

Sincere condolences to all of Signe's family. I met her at church back in 1985 and visit her cafe when I am back on the island. She was my sister in Christ, a beautiful friend. Rest in everlasting peace.

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