Gardiner Museum Honours Co-founder
Helen Gardiner, C.M. (1938 – 2008)

It is with great sadness that the Gardiner Museum announced the passing of Helen Gardiner this summer. Just days after her 70th birthday, Helen passed away after a short but courageous battle with cancer.

Helen was among Canada’s most respected philanthropists and arts patrons. Born in Kirkland Lake, Ontario, she was an alumna of York University and Christie’s Fine Arts School in London, England.

In 1984, Helen and her late husband, George Gardiner (1917 – 1997), established the Gardiner Museum and donated the founding collection. From 2003 to 2006, she headed the Museum’s capital campaign, which funded the award-winning transformation of the building. The Museum will celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2009.

Through her leadership and philanthropic support, Helen championed many charitable causes in Ontario. Her numerous accomplishments and acts of charity were recognized in the fall of 2006, when she was awarded the Order of Canada.

Her warmth and vitality will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by the Museum Board, staff, volunteers and countless others who had the privilege of knowing her.

The Helen Gardiner Endowment Fund has been established to honour Mrs. Gardiner's memory. This Fund will help to ensure the continued vitality and success of the Museum. Please click here if you wish to donate to the Helen Gardiner Endowment Fund.