William John Edward Gillett

Bill is lovingly remembered by his wife Eleanor, sister Susan and four sons: John (Margot), children Kirsten, Katrine, Matthew; Douglas (Shelley), daughter Riley; Michael, son Mason; and Gary (Brandy). He was pre- deceased by his parents Edward and Susan Gillett.

Bill was raised and educated in Calgary, graduating from Crescent Heights High School in 1955. He articled with the firm Roberts, Gibson, & Fraser where he received his CA designation in 1959 and then went on to become a partner. After several years in public practice he enjoyed a rewarding career with Westburne International Industries.

His passion was hockey and as a goalie he excelled right from his early playing days, through the regional Big Six League and finally in the Calgary Old Timers. Over the years he received many accolades for his net minding skills but he always gave credit to the "guys in front" for the teams’ success. Bill was also a terrific mentor, introducing his sons to many sports including hockey, baseball and golf, while helping Eleanor with the myriad of rules for each one. He was an avid coach and volunteer for many of their hockey and baseball teams, was an early member of the Calgary Winter Club and most recently, a regular at the Calgary Elks Golf Club.

Through retirement he became well known around Lake Windermere where he and Eleanor spent many years fine tuning the family cottage, hosting family gatherings, golfing, gardening and welcoming friends in for coffee or a cold drink. Windermere is the place where he seemed the busiest, yet the happiest and most content.

Bill thoroughly enjoyed travelling with Eleanor and their many friends. Whether it was a local golf trip, a tour to Asia or time at villa in Tuscany, he relished it all and never turned down the opportunity.

The family extends their immediate gratitude to Dr. M Wong, nurses Erin, Pamela and Nancy at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre, and Lana of AHS Homecare for their care and compassion.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to The Samaritan Club of Calgary, Suite 503 - 1500 14th St SW Calgary T3C 1C9 (www.samaritanclub.ca) or to the charity of your choice.

A Celebration of Bill's Life will be held on Wednesday April 23rd, 2014 at the Calgary Winter Club, 4611 – 14 St NW from 6 to 9 pm where the family looks forward to sharing memories and good stories with you.