Michael J. Gardner died unexpectedly at his home on Thursday, September 25, 2014. He was 64.

Born in Worcester on July 18, 1950 he was son of the late Harry and Sabina (Chrostowski) Gardner. He graduated from St. Peter’s High School class of 1968. He married Mary T. Daigle on October 21, 1973.

Mike’s passion and love for building led to a long career in building custom movie sets for area theatres, including The Hanover Theatre as well as the Centrum. He worked for The Major Theatre Company since 1998 and was a member of the Local # 96.

Mike’s interests included his computer, The New England Patriots and time with his family.

He was predeceased by two siblings, Harry Gardner Jr. and Barbara Shaw.

In addition to his wife of 40 years, Mary, he leaves his two children, Jeremy Gardner and his girlfriend Vicki Bidleman and Sarah L. Bucciarelli and her husband Anthony; his three week old granddaughter, Sophia all of Worcester; three brothers, Steven J. and his wife, Debbie of Berlin, NH, Edmund H. and his wife, Pat of N. Woodstock, NH, Walter L. and his wife, Lori of Webster; a sister, Christine Lugo-Medina of Worcester. He was predeceased by two siblings, Harry Gardner Jr. and Barbara Shaw.

Family and friends will honor and remember Michaels’ life by gathering for calling hours on Wednesday, October 1st at Heald & Chiampa Funeral Directors ~ The Sumner House, 5 Church Road, Shrewsbury Center from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. followed by a Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. in the funeral home.

Honor Michael’s memory with a donation to the Worcester Animal Rescue League, 139 Holden Street, Worcester, MA 01606.