Pool staff fought to save ‘Cyclone’
A charismatic grandfather suffered a fatal heart attack at an Auckland Council-run pool, despite the efforts of lifeguards.
Pippo Gardi was in the spa when he had a sudden heart attack, triggering an emergency response from lifeguards on duty at Panmure YMCA on Tuesday.
They rushed to his aid, grabbed the pool’s defibrillator and gave him CPR but were unable to save the 82-year-old.
Gardi’s son Dino praised the efforts of the lifeguards and ambulance staff who worked on him for half an hour.
The defibrillator was considered a vital piece of kit at the centre and has been installed at every pool managed by Auckland Council.
In May the machine was credited with helping save the life of Zumba instructor Annie Tausi at Onehunga YMCA.
Dino Gardi said his father had been a regular gym visitor even in old age, and was very independent.
At his funeral service in Glendowie yesterday, Gardi was remembered as someone with a passion for life who loved history and travel.
A migrant in the aftermath of World War II, Gardi left Sicily aged 14. he ended up in Perth before moving to Sydney where he became a boxer (nicknamed Cyclone) and manager.
Gardi is survived by three children Marina, Dino and Marcello and his five grandchildren.
Auckland Council leisure manager Rob McGee expressed sympathy for Gardi’s family, as well as those who were at the pool.
He said St John staff had praised the efforts of the pool staff.