Obituary of Maurice Gardepie

Heaven was graced with a benevolent spirit when Maurice Gardepie passed away after a brief illness on Tuesday, December 8, 2009, at the age of 81. His wife Patricia of 55 years preceded him in death in December 2005. Born March 12, 1928 in Sioux City, Iowa, Maury grew up on a farm in Salix, Iowa. He served two years of active duty in the U.S. Navy stationed in San Diego, and five years in Naval Reserve. The rich agricultural Salinas Valley attracted Maurice and Patricia, relocating to Salinas in 1960. Maury’s spirit continues through his surviving six children, Steve Gardepie (Rayme) of San Diego; Larry Gardepie of San Diego; Maureen Schmidt of Littleton, CO.; Meri Christine Heath of Tualatin, OR; David Gardepie of Portland, OR; and Kevin Gardepie (Elizabeth) of Salinas. Maury was blessed with six grandchildren, Eric (Bethany), Laura, Albert, Joshua, Jenna, and Jessica. He is also survived by a brother Raymond Landry, sister Theresa Green, numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Residing in Salinas for 49 years, Maurice was employed by the Salinas Californian newspaper as a printer for 17 years; owned Elaine’s print shop for 2 years; and was employed by the Diocese of Monterey at Madonna del Sasso Parish for 13 years. Maury’s sense of humor and charitable enthusiasm touched countless lives. An active volunteer for St. Vincent de Paul, ICF, SIRS, Angela’s Angels, and various church activities, Maury also served as Boy Scout leader of Troop 212. Friendships made at the Pacific Coast Care Center enriched Maury’s last few years. The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the angels at P.C.C. Times spent with family and an extraordinary number of friends were his greatest joy, in addition to his passion for horticulture, carpentry, sports, animals, and camping. Memorials: In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Pacific Coast Care Patient Activity Fund (payable to Activity Director Angelo Manzano), 720 E. Romie Lane, Salinas, CA. 93901; the Society of St. Vincent de Paul c/o Madonna del Sasso; or donor’s favorite charity.