Obituary of Gordon Vincent Gillis

With broken hearts we announce the passing of Gordon Gillis on Friday, July 20,2018, at the QEII Halifax Infirmary. Gordon was born in Halifax to the late Hughie and Gertrude (Langley) Gillis. Gordon loved his family and friends dearly and lived life to the fullest. He is survived by his loving wife of fifty years, Dorothy (Swan) Gillis and by his loving children, Scott, Tana (Paul) McKenna, Melody, Kyla (Edward) and Thane. ten grandchildren; Lindsay (Patrick), Trista (Michael), T’Keyah, Tiyana, Lariah, Lataya, Lavanna, Lavante, Kyle and Kaneesha. Along with five great-grandchildren, Cullen, Cooper, Ni’yairah, Naliyah and Chance. He is also survived by his brothers, Alfred (Lorraine), Thomas (Theresa) and sister, Bernice Garant; plus the extended family of the Hollet’s. He was predeceased by his sister, Beverly Marriott.

Gordon began working at an early age but his first real fulltime job was with the RCMP as the chef at the Thornvale Barracks in Halifax, after leaving this position Gordon went to work at Camp Hill Memorial Hospital where he assumed the responsibility of head chef for the hospital for the next 15 years. Although he enjoyed his work at the hospital he was offered a position to become the head chef for the Lt. Governor where he remained for the next 20 years. Upon his retirement he was once again called back into service as the chef for the officers and crew of the Voyage of Discovery expedition with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Above all he did during his working career his passion was always to cook meals for his family and friends which he did on a regular basis. In addition to his love of cooking Gordon loved music, dancing, a respectable drink of Scotch and having a good laugh.  Known for his laugh, his wicked sense of humor, gentle demeanor and many stories, Gordon was very well loved, respected by his family, friends and anyone who knew him. During the last few years of Gordon’s life he found spiritual peace and comfort by saying the rosary every night before he went to bed. Gordon’s family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to both Gordon’s brother Alfred along with the staff at the Halifax Infirmary for their supportive care.

Arrangements are under the care of J. Albert Walker Funeral Home (2005) Ltd., 149 Herring Cove Road, Spryfield, where visitation will be held on Thursday, July 26 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. A celebration of Gordon’s life will be held at St Michael’s Church on Friday, July 27 at 10:30 AM, with a reception to follow in the church hall. Interment will be held in St. John’s Cemetery.