John "Red" Hardinge Gillham

John devoted more than three decades of his life to public service, working for the Ministry of Natural Resources in Ontario from 1966 until his retirement in 2000. His commitment to the land and the people he served was a defining part of who he was.

He was predeceased by his first wife, Carol (nee Calaiezzi), and is survived by his wife, Ann. John was a devoted family man and loving father to his children Shane (Kim), Dana, and Natalie Torrens (Mike), as well as his daughter in law Bobbi.

John was a proud Poppa to Faith, Caitlin (Mike), Devon, Hannah (Karym), and Spencer, and a great grandfather to Juniper. Also left to mourn are his siblings and extended family, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Photography was one of John’s greatest passions. He found beauty in the world through his lens and shared that passion with others as a dedicated member of the Nanaimo Photography Club. His love of the outdoors extended naturally into the Nanaimo Hiking Club, where he enjoyed time on the trails and the companionship of fellow hikers.

A celebration of life will be held in Timmins, Ontario, where family and friends will gather to honour his memory and the steady, generous presence he brought to their lives.

As we say goodbye, we hold close the many ways John shaped our lives: his quiet steadiness, his love and dedication to his family, his love of the outdoors, and the way he saw beauty through his lens. His presence will be deeply missed, but his imprint remains.

Goodnight, Mr. G. Love you