George James Gardiner

20 December 19429 June 2026

Gardiner, George James:

1942 - 2026

Peacefully at home, surrounded by his family on Tuesday, 9 June 2026. Dearly loved husband of Michele.

Loved Dad, and father-in-law of Felisha & Andrew, Jenna & Cobus, Celeste & Brendon, and Mark. Loved Grandad of Lacey, and Elliott.

The family would like to thank the team at Taranaki Hospice for their care, and everyone else, for their love and support.

Messages to the Gardiner Family may be left here.

A memorial service to celebrate George’s life will be held at Eagars Te Henui Chapel, 46 Watson Street, New Plymouth on Saturday 13 June 2026 at 2pm.

In preference to flowers, please consider a donation to St Johns Ambulance.

Eagars Funerals

Notice by Eagars Funerals

Tributes

Uncle George! We can't believe how lucky we have been to have found you, spent some time with you and above all know you for the wonderful person you are. Thank you so much for not only acknowledging us and giving us some time, all while not being in the best of health. Meeting you and your family for the first time (and your Essex) last year in New Plymouth kinda feels a bit like a miracle. You don't many opportunities like that in life. Though we only knew you for a brief period of time... it was magic. What a life you've had.... Rest well - George

Phillip & Michael Andrews

My deepest condolences and love to Michele and family, I finally got the word two hours before the service, really big shock as I was all prepared to drive up from Christchurch. Couldn’t make it in two hours but watched the beautiful service on the internet. I had known George for almost 50yrs. I knew him as a friend, a business colleague with Combined and also as a confidant, a very special man! I will always have fond memories of our years in Combined and thereafter, his occasional mission to the South Island in the Essex. He would always stay a night or two as he knew the Essex would have a warm bed for the night, and also a place to conduct running repairs and maintenance. What can I say in words, other than George was a compliment to my life and I will miss him dearly. Michele, as always, if there is ever anything I can ever do for you or help you with, just call me. Our brief time on God`s Earth is only the schooling of our total journey. I pray for peace and comfort for you and the family. Your friend, Roger O`Byrne.

Roger O`Byrne

My Mum, Margaret spoke highly of George and my earliest memories of Aunty Lil and Uncle Bob and Georgie as Mum called him are special. As a child I remember Aunty Lil teaching me to sprinkle a little salt on my ice-cream - yummy and Uncle Bob would tower above us all. Mum spent a lot of time with Georgie and Michele on the chicken farm/Auckland part of his life. Such a lovely and quite the handsome guy full of knowledge and stories. Much love to Michele and family. He will be remembered 💖

Wendy Gates

A beautiful service for you George. It is clear how deeply loved you are. Condolences to the entire family. We wish we could be there to support and show some love. We have been thinking about all of you dearly.

Katerina and Matt

Condolences to Michelle, Jen, Celeste and family, I am grateful for the connection made with George- my great uncle. He was the first real connection Ive had to the Gardiner side of the family. Although we didn't keep in contact regularly, it didn't matter. He would comment sometimes on my Facebook posts or send the odd message here and there to keep in touch and that was enough. He was also kind enough to bring his Essex all the way over to Rotorua so we could use it for our wedding in 2017 of which I was very grateful for. I have some lovely photos of the car and of him/Michelle, I'll have to send these through :). I was also grateful to meet both Jenna and Celeste- both lovely, genuine people. I'm sorry I couldn't make it over today to see you again and meet the wider family but perhaps another time under better circumstances. Much love and support your way during this sad time. Please don't be strangers and let me know if your every down these ways I'd love to keep in touch xx

Lee-anne

Condolences to Michelle and George’s extended family I enjoyed engaging with George through his time at Kaupokonui and as a committee member of the Beach Society Always engaging, friendly and willing to contribute. I also enjoyed hosting George and his friend when hunting at Taunoka Station

Keith Rodie

Sending love and big hugs to you Michele and family. Very fond memories of George during the time you lived at Fred Taylor Drive. George had a very kind heart, always willing to help but didn't take any prisoners.

Paul & Julie Mincham

Michele and Family So sorry to hear of Georges passing. He was a great man with many stories. Was always hoping he would come down for one last visit at Bach 9, George will always be remembered.

Hadley & Tarsh Blackbourn

Condolences To Michelle and Family So Sad to hear I have known George 65-70 years and will always remember his wicked sense of humor RIP old mate Wayne and Bernadette Thomas Brisbane

Wayne Thomas

Condolences to Aunty Michele and her Beautiful Family. George was the Uncle you always enjoyed the company of, he was funny, smart and always had the time for you. Love and big hugs to your family. Fond family memories ❤️ Dahne Taylor

Dahne Taylor

My husband Gilbert and I have known George for some years as we are all members of the HET Club, we would only meet up once a year at our AGM's but he was a lovely man. To Michele and family our deepest condolences from us and all of the HET family.

Andrea Dallow

Our deepest condolences Michele Felisha, Jenna, Celeste & Mark and their families. George, you fought such a courageous battle with cancer and now you are at peace. We have loved sharing time with you & Michele over the years, you had such a presence at our family gatherings. You certainly will be missed by so many. We are regretfully away for Saturdays service but will be watching from afar Much love to all

Debbie & Carlyle Campbell

To Michele and family George would have to be one of the most favourite humans I have acted for professionally. George was respectful, always listened and had a great sense of humour. Michele the love between you and George shone a bright light. You made this journey one of love and support. I will never forget banging into your screen door and george checking in in me a day later! He was more worried about caring for others than worrying about himself. Sorry I am away Saturday much love Marg

Margaret

Sending loving thoughts to all George’s family and friends. I have not seen George for many years as I live in Qld but he was a big part of our life growing up and always good fun. May he rest peacefully 🙏🏼🦋

Ann Morgan nee Tait

I had the pleasure of knowing George (Mr Gardiner) growing up being Felishas childhood friend. George gave me my nick name "Freckles" , we laughed about it all the time . He was such a kind man , I was over ALOT and him and Michele accepted me everytime with open arms . For that I'm forever grateful . Love to you all during this hard time . Thankyou George for treating me like your own , That meant alot xx

Amber Joslin

Tribute to George Today, I honor the memory of my dearly loved uncle, George. George was more than an uncle—he was a source of kindness, wisdom, laughter, and unwavering support. He had a way of making people feel welcome, valued, and cared for, and his presence brought comfort to those fortunate enough to know him. The memories we shared will remain with me forever: the conversations, the lessons, the smiles, and the countless moments that reflected his generous spirit. George touched many lives through his warmth and compassion, leaving behind a legacy of love that will continue to inspire all who knew him. Though he is deeply missed, his influence lives on in our hearts and in the values he shared with us. I am grateful for every moment I had with him and proud to have called him my uncle. You were dearly loved, and you will never be forgotten. Your memory will remain a treasured part of our lives George is with God now as he is a believer of Jesus our Lord and saviour 🙏

Rick Gardiner ( nephew)
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