Mark A. Gardiner, 43, of Bristol, passed away on the morning of May 13 at his home with his loving daughter Natasha at his side. The son of Robert and Lorraine (LeClair) Gardiner, he was born in Damariscotta on May 21, 1965.
He was employed by D.M. Russell for 19 years as an electrician and plumber, and then by S.T. Crooker & Son for two years. More recently, he was self-employed, creating the company Consolidated Energy Solutions which added the heating component to his other skills.
Mark was especially proud to have served his country from 1983 to 1987 as a Green Beret in the Army Special Forces as a member of the 82nd Airborne Division. He graduated 1st in his class in communications during basic training. He was based in Fort Bragg, but did a tour of duty in Honduras during his enlistment.
Mark was well known among his friends and family for always saying exactly what he thought, and for the many humorous stories he loved to tell. He was a lifelong animal lover, adopting many strays over the years, and was predeceased by his most special four-footed companion, German shepherd mix Rex.
Surviving him is his daughter, Natasha Gardiner of Bristol; parents, Bob and Lorraine Gardiner of Nobleboro; siblings, James Gardiner of Nobleboro, Elayn Hilton of Newcastle, Susan Geyer of Bristol, and Rob Gardiner of Damariscotta; and several nieces and nephews.
Visiting hours were held on May 18 at the Strong Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta. Service for Mark, with full military honors, followed, also at the funeral home, with Pastor Rick Newell officiating.
The family requests, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Mark’s name to the Lincoln County Animal Shelter, P.O. Box 7, Edgecomb, ME 04556.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Strong Funeral Home and Cremation Center, Damariscotta.
