James Eric Gardner

James Eric (Jim) Gardner passed away on Tuesday, March 11, 2014 at Hospice Home of the Piedmont, High Point, NC. A celebration of his life is scheduled on Friday, March 14, 2014 at the Sechrest Funeral Home, 120 Trindale Rd., Archdale, NC. Visitation begins at 6:00 p.m., and services to follow at 7:00 p.m.

Jim was born September 28, 1938 in Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada, the first born child of the late Cecil Eric and Dorothy Annie Gardner.

He leaves his beloved wife Valerie (Kilburn-Hagan) Gardner; his daughters Susan Fisher (Bradley) and Cathy Hagan, both of Ontario, Canada. His brother William Cecil Gardner predeceased him. Survivors include his sister, Erma Lorraine Martel (Louis), of California; grandchildren Braedon Fisher, Jessica Fisher, Kyle Hagan, Jake Smith and Caeleigh Smith, all of Ontario, Canada; nieces and nephews William Timothy Gardner, Shelly Gardner, James Eric Gardner, all of Alberta, Canada; Cindy Gardner of Nova Scotia, Canada, Nicole Martel and Mark Martel (Anita), of California, Bradley Martel (Nancy), of Texas, and Kristi Martel of Colorado,

Jim enjoyed his childhood. When he wasn't in school, he was free to explore from sunup to sundown. He relished physical activities such as baseball, swimming, bicycle riding, ice skating and hitting golf balls at the local driving range. In his teens, he began his working career by delivering for the drug store at the Four Corners of Malton, (now part of Mississauga) Ontario. Malton was home to two large aircraft manufacturing companies where testing jet engines was part of everyday life. Jim grew to love aircraft and set his sights on getting his pilot's license, a goal which he accomplished.

With the wonderful ability to connect with others, it is not surprising that Jim became a salesman in early adulthood.

In his early 20's Jim married, and from this relationship his beautiful daughter Susan was born.

The opportunity to relocate to North Carolina was presented when Jim was about 40 years old. Jim leapt at the chance. Once settled here he found the love of his life Valerie, not in his backyard, but back in his hometown area in Ontario, Canada.

Jim committed, not only to Valerie, but also to her daughter Cathy, when they married October 7, 1989. Their 24 years together has been a testament to their love.

Throughout their marriage, Jim and Valerie have given countless hours to support the National MS Society, an organization they have held close to their hearts. Many of their friendships stem from their volunteer work for the MS Society. So many of these good people came to visit Jim during his last days, sharing warm stories and affection.

Golf was always an important part of Jim’s life. In North Carolina he found long- lasting, genuine pleasure in his game, but more importantly in his friendship with his golfing buddies. In his last days nothing gave him more joy than to awaken to find his buddies at his bedside. They lit up his hospice room with sunshine and laughter. Jim would have liked nothing more than to pull on his hat and head out the door for 18 holes.

As in all lives, there were periods in Jim’s history that were challenging. No matter how great the challenge, he always rose to meet it with a big heart and a warm smile, making his blue eyes dance. It is no wonder there were so many visitors in these past few weeks. Had he been with us longer, there would no doubt have been many more wonderful stories and loving words exchanged. Jim was a good and loving man, husband, father, grandfather, son and brother.

The entire family extends their gratitude and appreciation for the loving and compassionate care received from Hospice of the Piedmont. They are Angels in scrubs.

In lieu of flowers donation may be made to Hospice Home, 1803 Westchester Dr., High Point, NC 27262 or the National MS Society, 2211 West Meadowview Rd., Greensboro, NC 27407.