EARL EDWIN GARDINER of Lethbridge, passed away Friday, October 3, 2008 at the Chinook Regional Hospital at the age of 74 years.

Earl was born the 15th of 16 children on September 28, 1934 to Rufus and Laura Gardiner of Thorndike, Maine.

Besides his wife Elizabeth, Earl is survived by 3 sisters, Pearl McFarland, Earl's twin of Albion, Maine, Beatrice Bryant of Thorndike Maine and Coral Furrow of Thorndike, Maine; 3 brothers Stewart Gardiner of Swanville and Austin and Robert of Unity, Maine; children Gregg (Deb), Allison (Dave) Nelder; his 4 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

Earl grew up in the small town of Thorndike, Maine with all of his brothers and sisters. He graduated from Freedom Academy in 1952 and married his childhood sweetheart Elizabeth (Bette) Bowman on June 15, 1952.

Earl graduated from the University of Maine in 1956 and was a member of the Alpha Zeta Honour Society as well as the Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity. He then attended and graduated from Purdue University in Lafayette, Indiana with the Master of Science Degree in June 1958, and then with the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in January, 1961. He worked for the Department of Agriculture for the Federal Government of Canada, retiring after 30 years of work.

He was a member, of Rotary International and held seats as President and Treasurer. Earl could also be found on the golf course with a smile on his face.

Earl will be greatly missed by his family, friends and ""Coffee Guys"". Especially by his loving wife of 56 years, Bette.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00am, on Tuesday, October 7, 2008, at the FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, 1614 - 5 Ave., S., Lethbridge, AB, with Dr. Bruce Martin officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the First Baptist Church Building Fund, 1614 - 5 Ave., S., Lethbridge, AB, T1J 0W3.