

Jeff spent his early childhood years in Bay City, MI. At the age of 11, he moved to Upland, CA with his mother, often fondly remembering their drive West on route 66, portions of which he was allowed to take the wheel and handle some of the driving.
Jeff enjoyed his teen years in CA, taking advantage of the beautiful weather, embracing new music and joining a band, going dancing at local teen clubs, and taking boat trips to Catalina Island. He graduated from Upland High School in 1972 as a standout athlete in both football and track & field.
Following high school, Jeff entered the United States Airforce at the age of 18, where he spent multiple years serving his country including time stationed abroad in Germany. After exiting the service, he attended Weber State University in Utah, graduating in 1982. He then attended medical school and achieved his Doctorate from Des Moines University in 1986, with plans to become a podiatrist.
Jeff moved to Augusta, ME, where he did his residency at the Togus VA Medical Center, which established the first podiatric residency program at the hospital. Following that, he established his own practice in Rockport, ME, which was the first and only Ambulatory Surgery Center in the state at that time. He later moved his practice to Damariscotta, ME. Jeff had an excellent reputation as a knowledgeable, skilled, and kind doctor, and his patients were always incredibly grateful for him.
Due to medical reasons making his ability to perform surgery unsustainable, Jeff sold his practice and took his medical knowledge and ability to create strong relationships to Novartis Pharmaceuticals in 1998, where he experienced success as a sales representative. He and his family moved to Staatsburg, NY for two years and then Brunswick, ME before settling in Warren, ME in 2003. Jeff later moved to Lewiston, ME.
Jeff was a lifelong learner and always had an intellectual curiosity, just like his Mother. He was an excellent actor and singer and performed in many community theater productions including as the lead roles of Emile de Becque in “South Pacific”, Sky Masterson in “Guys and Dolls”, Beauregard Jackson Picket Burnside in “Mame”, and Francis in “Forever Plaid”. He also loved to travel and seek out new and exciting experiences. In his younger years, Jeff earned his license to solo free fly skydive, completing 11 solo jumps.
Far beyond his personal and professional accomplishments, Jeff was most proud of his family. He is survived by his wife, Cheryl Ames-Gillman of Lewiston, ME, his daughter Rachel Siler and husband Arthur Siler of Richmond, VA, his son Michael Gillman and wife Haley Gillman of Simsbury, CT, his son Justin Gillman and wife Hilary Gillman of Union, ME, and his three grandchildren Lily, Riley, and Patrick. He also leaves behind his siblings Gordon, Suzanne, and John, in addition to countless friends and extended family.
Jeff’s visitation will be held on Friday, October 16, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with his memorial service beginning at 12:00 p.m. at The Fortin & Pinette Group, 217 Turner Street, Auburn. Interment will follow immediately at Gracelawn Memorial Park, 980 Turner Street, Auburn. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and the website can be accessed by utilizing the link https://afsp.org/
Arrangements are in the care of The Fortin & Pinette Group. Condolences and memories may be shared with Jeff’s family and friends here on the website.
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