Ronald Leo "Rannie" Gillis

79, Sydney/Grand Mira South

On Sunday, Aug. 20, 2006, surrounded by his family at his beloved bungalow ‘Out on the Mira,’ Rannie passed away peacefully after a lengthy battle with cancer.

The son of the late Neil D. and Agnes (MacKinnon) Gillis, Rannie was born and raised in Grand Mira South. A steelworker for 40 years, he and Theresa raised their family on Dominion Street in Whitney Pier, but spent every summer in Grand Mira. An active member of both Holy Redeemer and St. Margaret of Scotland Parishes, Rannie was devoted to his faith and the Blessed Virgin. He served his parishes as Eucharist Minister, altar server, lector, and bingo- caller at the annual parish picnic. He was an associate member of the Sisters of St. Martha, and an avid Leafs fan.

He is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 46 years, Theresa (MacKinnon); his six children, Martina (Albert) MacKinnon, Howie Center, Liz (Joe) MacDonald, Judique, Lynn, Windsor, Ron (Stephanie), Big Ridge, Therese MacKinnon, Howie Center, Trina (Bill) Curry, Sydney. Papa is also survived by his eight grandchildren, whom he adored, Christopher, Kenzie, Bhreagh, Christina, Liam, Tyler, Jeff and Neil. Also survived by his brothers, John and Jimmie (Bette), both of Grand Mira, Joe, Sydney; his sister, Sadie (Allan) MacNeil, Grand Mira; his uncle, John (Helen) MacKinnon., Glace Bay. Rannie is also survived by many nieces and nephews whom he loved as his own.

He was predeceased by his sister, Tina Baldwin, his brothers, Danny and Neil, two brothers in infancy and by several aunts and uncles.

Visitation for the late Mr. Gillis was held Monday, August 21, 2006 from 7-9 pm and Tuesday, August 22 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at T.W. Curry Parkview Chapel.

Funeral Mass was celebrated Wednesday, August 23 at 11:00 a.m. in Holy Redeemer Church with Rev. Gerald Currie officiating.

Interment took place at St. Margaret’s Cemetery, Grand Mira South.