A Gentle Farewell

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Shirley Joan Gordon Gardiner (née Hostetter), affectionately known as Joan, who passed away peacefully on September 17, 2025, in Richmond, BC, at the age of 90.

Early Life

Born on June 13, 1935, in Lethbridge, Alberta, Joan was raised primarily in Castlegar, BC, where she and her siblings enjoyed a happy childhood and remained close with each other and their parents, Frederick Arthur and Elizabeth Hostetter.

Youth & Family Bonds

Known in her youth for her beauty, spirited nature, and popularity, Joan cherished her high school years, where she had many friends and an active social life. She was predeceased by her beloved sister, Grace (Johnny) Nixon, with whom she shared a close bond growing up.

Marriage & Young Motherhood

In her early 20s, Joan met and married Ted Gergely. The couple lived between Castlegar and Vancouver while Ted completed his university training to become a schoolteacher. Joan supported his career by working as a secretary at MacMillan Bloedel, a bustling office in downtown Vancouver. These were joyful and formative years for both Joan and Ted.

A Growing Family

In 1960, they moved to Oliver, where Ted began his first teaching position and where their daughter, Dana, was born. A later move to Nelson coincided with the birth of their son, Stephen.

A New Home in Richmond

In 1967, the family settled in Richmond, in a new subdivision surrounded by young families. Joan thrived as a homemaker and a devoted mother.

A Return to Work & Personal Fulfillment

As her children grew older, Joan returned to the workforce, eventually finding her calling in clothing sales at the Richmond and Vancouver Eaton’s department stores. Her love of fashion, natural style, and warm personality made her highly valued by customers and colleagues alike.

New Chapters of Love

After her marriage to Ted ended, Joan embraced a new chapter of independence and later found deep love and companionship with Andrew Gardiner, who cherished her until his passing ten years ago.

Life at Fraserview

For the last several years, Joan resided at the Fraserview Retirement Home, where she enjoyed a vibrant social life, actively participated in activities and events, and especially delighted in singing with the choir. She formed many meaningful friendships and became particularly close with several staff members.

A Devoted Family Woman

Throughout her life, Joan remained deeply connected to her family. She is survived by her brother Fred (Ariella), her children Dana, and Stephen (Michelle) and her grandchildren Jesse, Jenny (Kara), and Maxwell.

Treasured Memories

She especially treasured outings to Steveston and loved reminiscing about her many boat trips with Andrew along the Fraser River.

Her Legacy

Joan will be remembered for her warmth, grace, youthful spirit, enduring beauty, and her unwavering love for her family.