Donald Bruce Gillies

On Tuesday January 11, 2022, Donald Bruce Gillies of Oak Lawn, IL passed away. Don was born on October 4, 1933 to James and Isabella Gillies; He is the loving husband of Marjorie Gillies (Hakes); loving father of Robin (Steve Manos) Black, Jeffrey (Randie) Gillies, Jason (Jennifer) Gillies and the late Robert Gillies; devoted grandfather of Allison, Jadyn and Olivia. Fond uncle of nieces, Melissa O’Rourke-Skoda, Barbara Lewis, and nephews, Steven O’Rourke, Glen O’Rourke and Rick Lewis.

Dear family and friends:

It with a very sad heart that I write to tell you that Don Gillies entered the presence of His Savior Monday, January 10, 2022.

He had a solid faith that held him strong, especially through these last days, and knew that when the time came Jesus would welcome him.

Don was a good and faithful husband and father. He worked hard at his job of being a Railroad Engineer for 40 years to provide for his family. A job that entailed all kinds of weather and different hours without complaint.

He loved the Lord, his family, cars, talking to people, especially his grand kids.

He was a ‘car guy’, loving the Classics, owning a couple of ‘Oldies’, before ending with a 1962 Chrysler Newport that still houses in the garage. He always enjoyed showing these Classics at Cruise Night events, chatting with other guys about new and innovative ways to repair, or replace parts.

He loved his kids, Bob (who pre-deceased him), Robin, Jeff and Jason, and kept up with their lives. He would call his niece, Melissa, or nephews, Steve, and Glen, and friends that lived across the country, keeping up with those close to him.

Always ready to lend a hand and figure out problems when needed. He wore many hats, ‘Dobie’ at the RR, husband, father, grandpa aka (Papa), uncle, and “Candy Man”.

Sometimes we would sit near restless kids during a church service, and ‘cuz he always had peppermints on him, he’d whisper, if you’ll sit still, you’ll get one of these at the end. Did not take too long before he was standing at the back of the church after services handing out candy. Thus being dubbed “The Candy Man”.

I am so grateful we got to share 68 wonderful years in marriage, it’s been a good ride.

In all the love I held for you, marje

Visitation: Sunday 5-8pm at Chapel Hill Gardens South Funeral Home, 11333 S. Central Avenue; Oak Lawn, IL Monday, 9am until Service at 11am at CrossWinds Church, 10835 S. Pulaski Road; Chicago, IL.

Funeral procession to follow service to Chapel Hill Gardens South Cemetery. For more information, please call 708-636-1200.

Luncheon will be held immediately after interment back at Crosswinds Church.

In consideration of the safety of our guests and associates, Chapel Hill Gardens Funeral Home will adhere to the current gathering restrictions in the state of Illinois. Proper social distancing must be practiced and all guests will be required to wear facemasks at all times. Outside refreshments are not permitted. Thank you for your cooperation.