Edward Gardhouse (1944–2025)
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Edward Gardhouse of Schomberg, who died peacefully surrounded by his family, at Southlake Hospital on July 12, 2025, at the age of 81.
Born on February 29, 1944, Ed had the rare distinction of celebrating only 20 official birthdays — a lighthearted reflection of his unique spirit and big sense of humour. Throughout his life, Ed was known for his kindness, integrity, and unwavering dedication to those he loved.
Ed is survived by his wife of 40 years, Martha (nee Mulholland), his daughter Becky whom he was so proud of, and his “buddy” and son-in-law, Tom Freiday. He also leaves behind his dear friend Kevin Holmes (Stephanie), whom he loved like a son. Predeceased by his sister Linda and his parents, Bert and Bertha Gardhouse. Sadly missed and forever remembered by his niece & nephew, his cousins, extended family and countless friends.
Ed built a life marked by hard work, quiet wisdom, and a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. Whether spending time with family, enjoying the outdoors at cattle shows or tractor pulls, or offering a helping hand to a neighbour, he lived each day with grace and humility. Many will remember him as the Auctioneer, for which he ran his own business in Schomberg for decades, or as the voice of so many community & charity events across the province.
He will be remembered for his steady presence, thoughtful words, and the way he made those around him feel seen and valued.
In keeping with Ed’s wishes — and true to the way he lived — there will be no formal service. Ed never liked a fuss and didn’t want to see anyone sad. Instead, his wish was for a celebration of his life to be held, where stories could be shared, laughter encouraged, and his memory honored with joy. The celebration of life will take place on Sunday July 27th 2025 at the Trisan Centre, 25 Dillane Drive, Schomberg ON from 1:00pm to 5:00pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Ed’s memory may be made to the Ontario 4-H Association or the Georgian Bay Steam Show — two organizations close to his heart. Online condolences and memories may be left for the family at www.RodAbramsFuneralHome.com.
Service
Celebration of Life
Trisan Centre
25 Dillane Drive Schomberg, Ontario L0G 1T0
Sunday July 27, 2025
1:00pm - 5:00pm
Maureen And Ralph Joyce says
Dear Martha , Becky and Tom,
We are so sorry to hear about Ed’s passing and our hearts are heavy . Many good times were had at the old auction hall , and so many stories to share . Ed was a good man with a wonderful sense of humour and will be greatly missed . Rest in Peace friend -Maureen and Ralph Joyce
Geraldine kargl says
A note to my Cousin Edward. I will always hold you in my Heart with great joy and warmth. You used to tease me when I was a little girl wearing my hair in ringlets and my pretty little dress. You were larger than life to me. Edward you were wearing your blue jeans. Boots and always combing your hair with hair tonic getting ready for the girls. You are one of my favourite Cousins. I am sure you are with Linda and your Mom and Dad. Party hardy up there Cuz. Love Ya and miss Ya. Gerry Kargl.
Linda Baker says
My heartfelt condolences with dear Ed’s passing. Such a dear friend to
many, he gave his all!…humour, talents, solid advice when asked, salt of
the earth! Rest in peace…….
Bill/Binger McCarty says
I am so sad to hear of my good friend Ed’s passing. My Condolences Becky and Martha!
To You Ed, thanks for so many fun stories, awesome experiences, unforgettable memories and so many great times over the years as buddies.
Most of all thank you for your/our friendship over all the years.
Brady Weening says
My condolences to the family of Ed Gardhouse . He would come into foodland and I’d say hi to him and also would recognize his voice at the demo derby . Thoughts and prayers are with you all .
Ernie and Daina Wienecke says
Or deepest condolences to all the families of Ed ‚s passing.
Ernie and Daina Wienecke
Agnes Julian says
Sending our heartfelt condolences to Martha and family.
He will be missed by many.
Fred & Agnes Julian & David Julian
Todd Marchant says
To all of Ed’s Family,
Our most sincere condolences go out to you all.
Todd, Marilou and Don Marchant
Ron Hepburn says
Condolences. .. Martha…Becky.
. Tom ..
RIP MY FRIEND …
KEEP SMILIN
T I’ll Again ..
Norma Jean Stephenson says
Thinking of you all, Martha, Becky, Tom, Kevin, Stephanie and families. Will miss Ed, his voice, laughter, and his humor. Rest in peace Ed. Our arms are around you all. John Frans and Norma Jean Stephenson Frans
Dave crombie says
Uncle Ed u sure will be missed by lots of people. I’ll sure miss u doin the parde in Cookstown at the steam show and doin all the ottpa pulls
My condolences to the gardhouse family
Brett Mabee says
Our condolences to ED’S family and friends.we always enjoyed listening to him at his auctions , Derby’s and truck and tractor pullings.the smiles and laughter he brought will be missed
Joanne, Pete Duggan and family says
Our condolences to Ed’s family. We really enjoyed going to his auctions. His smile will be greatly missed.
Arril Johnson says
… We knew each other as children and his energy, humour and clarity of view were always there and were still there when we were laughing and catching up at last year’s family reunion. I hope he’s having a chuckle and a head shake even now. No fuss, but a lot of love and laughter … Bless him …..
Dr Elwood Hurst says
Dear Martha and Becky; So sorry and sad to hear of Ed’s passing! He was a great friend – always so upbeat, genuine, funny and kind! I loved talking with him – he was a kindred spirit – could figure out and fix almost everything! He was such a great community guy. A great auctioneer and MC for the Demolition Derbys, tractor pulls, and other special events! We’re sure going to miss seeing him around. Please accept our condolences. Dr Elwood ( and Marjorie) Hurst, Dr. Vanessa Hollander, Christine Hurst and Staff of the Nobleton Dental Clinic.
Ingrid -formerly Dunn and Levack, then Ontario Stockyards says
Thinking of you. Martha and Becky
I remember Ed at the Stockyards in Toronto (hundred years ago)!
What a great, cheerful man.
Sad to hear that we lost another great guy!
Nancy Dockrill says
So sorry to hear of Ed’s passing. He will be so missed. Such a kind presence in the community. Always a nice smile and kind words. Thinking of you all at this time. Nancy and Mike Dockrill
TERRY GROVE says
DEAR MARTHA AND FAMILY….I AM SOO GLAD I MADE THE CONNECTION TO YOU THROUGH ED ! WE WERE THE MIHOREANS ,,,YOUR OLD NEIGHBOURS OF MANY YEARS AGO AT PEACHES CORNERS ! THROUGH TRACTOR PULLING I REALIZED WHO ED WAS ,,,WHAT A CHARACTER !!!! HE SURE WAS A FUNNY GUY AND GREAT ANNOUNCER TOO ! MARK AND I SEND OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHIES TO YOU AT THIS TIME……JUST REMEMBER,,,,HE HASNT GONE FAR,,,,HE S JUST GONE ON AHEAD ! XOOOOXO LOVE MARK AND TERRY GROVE
Karen Collins says
Becky and family
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the loss of your dad.
My heart goes out to you and your family
Karen Collins
Dee Smith says
Dear Martha and Becky,
I am saddened to hear about Ed’s passing. He will always be remembered by saying,
“Keep smiling” at the end of our conversations.
Dee
Mary & Garry says
RIP Ed Our deepest sympathy to Martha,Becky,Tom ,Kevin and families may our thoughts and prayers be with you during this difficult time
Garry and Mary
Marnie & Family says
Our mother, Geraldine Kargl, was one of Ed’s cousins and on behalf of our family, we wish to express our condolences and love to you all. Ed was a warm presence at any Johnson family function and a spirit as large as his will always live on. It’s an everlasting gift. To his family, friends and cherished community, please accept our biggest hugs. We are thinking of you all, Ed especially.
Paul Harder says
My condolences to the guardhouse families and Mr Kevin Holmes , he put his hands to what he thought was best to better the world around him , I’ve known Ed since the early days of tractor pulling , life is eternal as we all will meet again , “ going once ! Going twice ! Sold ! To my bud Ed , rest in peace my friend , Paul Harder
Jeanne and Ken Sheridan says
Dear Martha and Becky, so very sorry to hear of Eddie’s passing. We send our deepest condolences. Ken and Jeanne Sheridan
Robert (Bob) and Linda Boak says
Robert (Bob) and Linda Boak
Our condolences to the family. We are so sad to hear this news. Ed was a great guy. His parents lived across the road from us in the “70’s”. He will be missed by all.
Shirley Steed says
Dear Martha and Becky,
I am very sad to hear of Eds passing. He was a great friend to me and supporter of my 4-H work. I often think of the times working at his auction sales. Ed always had a smile on his face or words of wisdom that would put a smile on my face. We will be missed by all that new him. Treasure your memories of your time with him. Dont be sad that he is gone. Be happy that you had him for the time you did. Rest in Peace Ed.
Love and sympathy
Shirley
Richard Greenhead says
wishing condolences to Martha and Becky for there loss of a great guy
Bud imber says
My condolences to the family..Spent many times at the Angels restaurant in Orangeville..Many great laughs..What a special friend he was..R I P ED
Stewart Mitchell and Rodney Rushton says
I was sadden to hear of Eddie’s passing. The community owes him a tremendous amount of gratitude for his service and dedication to all. Will miss him at all the upcoming tractor pulls, great competitor and a great friend.Let memories of happy times replace your sorrow with a smile and let those memories fill the emptiness in your broken hearts. Rest in peace,my friend.
AMANDA LYNN MAYHEW says
Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace, and may you find comfort in the loving memories you shared. My thoughts are with you and your family.