MAURICE WILLIAM GARDNER
On Wednesday, February 11th, 2026, just 17 days shy of his 97th birthday, Maurice Gardner quietly left us, with his daughters by his side. Maurice was born to Thomas and Gertrude Gardner (née: O’Dell) on March 1st, 1929 in McLean, Saskatchewan and passed away on February 11th, 2026 at Pioneer Lodge in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. He grew up in Kedleston, SK where his father was section foreman for the railroad. After completion of high school at Central Collegiate in Moose Jaw, Maurice ventured off to St. Andrew’s College in Saskatoon, SK. He served as an ordained United Church minister before a calling into education. He taught history, English, and psychology at Riverview Collegiate for 30 years until his retirement in 1989. It was during his early years teaching in Moose Jaw that he met “his Marie” through mutual friends. After a 4-year courtship, they married and enjoyed 55 years together. Their loving relationship was an inspiration to many. They raised 3 daughters – Sheryl, Janice, and Melissa. Maurice was an athlete at heart enjoying hockey, running, curling, bowling, golf, and baseball. Although quiet and reserved, he was a passionate competitor. Maurice was active in the community and had a particular passion for politics. He was a member of the New Democratic Party, Nature Moose Jaw, and The Canadian Club. He served on the board of directors for Hunger in Moose Jaw, The Coop board of directors, and several committees at Zion United Church. He gave much of his time to charitable organizations including the Heart and Stroke Foundation, The Kidney Foundation, The United Way, and delivering Meals on Wheels.
He was predeceased by his wife, Marie (née: Oystryk) in 2017; daughter, Janice in 1994; parents, Thomas and Gertrude (née: O’Dell); brother, Tom; and sisters: Florence, Irene, Hazel, Doris, and Mildred. Maurice leaves behind many people who will miss him dearly including his daughter, Sheryl Salen (Drew) and her children Jesse (Olivia) and Hannah; daughter, Melissa Gardner and her children Devyn and Jorja; sister-in-law, Holly Kominetsky; as well as many special nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Pioneer Lodge for the exceptional care of dad over the past 4 years. He often spoke of how happy he was living there and how kind you all were to him. You are appreciated.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, February 28th, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Moose Jaw Funeral Home, with interment to follow in Rosedale Cemetery. Those not able to attend may view the service by going to www.moosejawfuneralhome.com/webcast/. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Maurice’s name may be made to The Heart and Stroke Foundation, Box 2414, Toronto, ON M4P 1E4, Canadian Cancer Society, 55 St Clair Ave W, Suite 300, Toronto, ON M4V 2Y7, or to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Michelle Ellis, Funeral Director 306-693-4550
Our condolences on the passing of Maurice Gardner. I attended Riverview Collegiate 1959-1963, my wife Susan Parr 1964-1967 (Senior Pin). Maurice taught us history.
It looks like he had a good long life. We attended the United Church, and Susan was involved with St. Andrew’s College in Saskatoon with former Premier Calvert (who played the organ at our Grandview United Church wedding in Moose Jaw).
Interestingly we visited Kedleston Beach for several summers with the De Jongs from Regina (Harrington cabin).
My heartfelt condolences to Maurice’s family. Mrs. Gardner (Marie), was my grade one teacher at Victoria School. She made a lasting impression on me. Please cherish all the wonderful memories.