Jon S. Gardiner

In Loving Memory of Jon S. Gardiner

Jon was born on June 14, Flag Day, 1954, in Huntington, NY. He was raised in Greenlawn with older brother, David, and younger sister, Jill. Growing up he learned many trades from his father and uncles which included welding, plumbing, auto mechanics and more. Everyone knew that Jon could repair or build anything. He was a 3rd generation volunteer firefighter, first in Greenlawn where he also worked as their mechanic. Later he joined Commack FD where he settled to raise his family with his beloved wife Sue. Ultimately, Jon worked as a firefighter for the FDNY where he earned the title of hero! He retired early allowing him to spend time with his children, Nicole and Bradley, getting involved in all of their activities and hobbies. Nicole remembers when he built a scoreboard for her fencing team because they didn’t have one. He was the den and then pack leader for Bradley’s Cub Scout pack. They spent many weekends camping, volunteering and building pinewood derby cars. Some of their fondest memories were the times spent on his boat, fishing, tubing, and just enjoying time together in the sun. His grandchildren, Vincent, Vanessa, and Victoria, adored him. As he did with his children, he leaned into their interests and would build them anything they desired – like a bike ramp and quad trailer. He was their biggest fan and would attend all of their school activities and sports games. Jon was best known for his willingness to help others. Whenever he saw someone in need he insisted on helping whether friend or stranger. He loved home renovations and working in his garage almost as much as he loved desserts. He was the type of person that would make friends everywhere he went. He approached every firefighter he encountered no matter where he was, any state or country, to talk about the brotherhood. Jon touched the lives of so many, leaving endless memories for us all to enjoy.