Leona - Mae Gardner

1940 – 2023

Following a lengthy illness, Leona Gardner passed away May 16, 2023, in Swan River, Manitoba with her family at her side. She was 83 years old.

The daughter of the late Stan and Agnes Pollock, Leona was born on February 7, 1940, in Brandon, Manitoba, where she was raised and received her education. After leaving school, she worked several jobs, including serving as a telephone operator in Elkhorn, Manitoba. There she met her future husband, Ken Gardner, whom she married in 1960. The couple were blessed with three children: Kevin, Laurie Maidy (Allan), Dale (Dawn), 3 grandchildren: Tyson (Ally), Ali (Mike), and Derek, 4 great grandchildren, Jasper, Samuel, Levon and Ira.

After moving to the valley, Leona became a valued employee at White’s Drugstore, a position she held for 27 Years. Customers will remember her for her ready smile, warm welcome, and cheery words that brightened their day. She loved her home and kept her house in pristine order, as she did her yard and flowers. And no job was too big for Leona: one of her best Christmas presents was a chain saw which she put to good use. She enjoyed visiting with friends and neighbors, again welcoming all comers with a big smile and an offer of tea or coffee. Whatever Leona did, she did well.

Their summer home at Wellman Lake in the Duck Mountains was a place of peace and solitude for Leona, and she spent many happy days there, delighting in her three cherished grandchildren: Tyson, Ali and Derek. She also enjoyed the company of her lake neighbors, especially at “Happy Hour” when they would meet at 4 o’clock, visit and revel in the beautiful surroundings. She loved animals, and a little Spaniel cross “Casey” was her constant companion at home and at the cottage. Sadly, when he passed away, she was quite ill at the time, but a little “rescued” doggy came into her life, “just when she needed it" and Goldy filled her days with unconditional love and laughter.

Leona was interested in local events and was always willing to hear her friend’s stories, with either the ups or downs. When the grandchildren grew older and began to work and tour the world over, she was thrilled with the pictures and e-mails that brought her into their exciting lives of travel.

In addition to her children, and grandchildren, Leona will be sadly missed by sister-in-law Dorothy Gardner, brother-in-law Randy (Rhonda) Gardner of Swan River, as well as her four very special nieces, one nephew, and a host of friends who will mourn her passing.

Leona was predeceased by her husband Ken, her parents, little grand-daughter Kyla Deanne Maidy, sister Velma, and brother-in-law Jack Stothard.

 In keeping with Leona’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no formal funeral.

If friends so desire memorial donations in Leona’s memory may be made to Swan Valley Animal Protection League Box 2735 Swan River, MB R0L 1Z0.

Through the years Leona made many friends and it was her wish that she say a final “Thank You” to each and every one of them for their care and kindness through the years.

Goodbye my family,

My life is now passed.

I loved you all to the very last.

Weep not for me, but courage take,

Love for each other, for my sake.

And know those you love don’t go away

They walk beside you each and every day.

Swan Valley Funeral Services

363 Kelsey Trail

Swan River, MB R0L 1Z0

204-734-5775

www.swanvalleyfuneralservices.com