Obituary of Richard W. Gardiner

Richard W Gardiner, loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away on August 29, 2024 at home in Canandaigua, NY. Rick was predeceased by his parents William and Vivian and his stepfather George Biesenbach (B-Z). He is survived by his wife, Irenita, his children William (Robin), and Ryan and his granddaughter, Eden, his twin brother Robert (Dottie Polvino) and many extended family members. He was born on November 6, 1945, to his parents William and Vivian (Barrett) Gardiner. Richard, Rick, “Duck” as he was often known, was a man of great character and strength. He proudly served in the US Navy on Naval aircraft carriers during the Vietnam War from 1966-1970. After his military service Rick returned to Rochester and eventually began a long career in law enforcement which included service to Monroe County Sheriff’s Department, Town of Brighton and the Marine Patrol in Wayne County. On June 16, 1979, Rick married Irenita (Nita) Flynn. Together they raised two sons, William and Ryan of whom he was very proud. He enjoyed teaching his boys firearm safety, the love of target shooting, boating, tubing, fishing on Lake Ontario and of course his love of playing the stock market. Hang on that Nvidia! In retirement Rick and Nita enjoyed travel, wintertime with friends in Sun City Carolina Lakes, in South Carolina and Canandaigua in the summer. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, September 5, from 5-7pm at Fuller Funeral Home, Inc. 190 Buffalo St. Canandaigua. An 11am burial will be Friday, September 6, at the Garland Cemetery, 7743 West Ridge Road, Brockport, NY. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the charity of your choice. Rick’s kindness, strength, and unwavering love for his family will forever be remembered and cherished. May he rest in peace, knowing that he has left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who had the honor of sharing in his life's journey. To share a memory or express condolences online please visit www.fullerfh.com