Zenaida O. Gardner, 72, Massena

MASSENA -- Zenaida O. Gardner, 72, of North Main Street, passed away Tuesday, June 11, 2024 surrounded by the love of her family at the University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, Vermont.

Zenaida was born on March 27, 1952, in the Province of Cavite, Philippines, the daughter of the late Jose and Magdalina (Oira) Rafada. Growing up in the Philippines, she attended schools in Cavite and Dumagete.

After moving to the United States, she worked for Kyocera in San Diego before moving to the North Country where she worked as a dealer at the Akwesasne Mohawk Casino for many years until her retirement. She had a great love for cooking Filipino meals for her family, fishing, shopping, and picking on her grandchildren.

Zenaida is survived by her children, David “Mike” (Taylor) Gardner of Massena, Cheryl Gardner (Van Alexander) of Massena, and Robert Gardner of San Diego; her former daughter-in-law, Divina Gardner of San Diego; her grandchildren, Michael, Mitchell, and Brooke Gardner, Alannah, Laylah, and Aliyah Bingham, Taylor White, Quincy McCants, Brannon (Kaelin) and Jenilyn Gardner; her great-grandson, Hudson Lazore; her siblings, Dana Buling, Rebecca Oira, and Jesue Oira, all of the Philippines; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, David Edward Gardner in February 2009; her grandson, Zachary Gardner at birth; and a brother, Danilo Oira.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Donaldson Funeral Home, Massena, where a celebration of life will be held June 28, 2024 from 4-6:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing may consider memorial contributions to be made in her memory to the American Diabetes Association.

Friends are encouraged to share memories and offer condolences online at www.donaldsonfh.com.