Tanner Joseph Closs-Gillis

With profound sadness, we announce the unexpected passing of Tanner Joseph Closs-Gillis, age 21, of Campbell River. Tanner passed away in Campbell River, leaving his family, friends, and all who loved him heartbroken by this sudden and unimaginable loss.

Beautiful Tanner was a bright, loving presence whose kindness, smile and laughter brought warmth into every room. He had a way of making people feel comfortable and valued, and his gentle spirit left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

He found joy in simple, meaningful passions—reading, building with Lego, kickboxing, listening to music, and walking along the beach, where he found peace in the sound of the waves. Tanner also had a deep love for animals, especially his cats, Mister and Frisco and dog Otis. Their companionship brought him comfort, joy, and a sense of connection that meant so much to him. He took great pride in his work at Thrifty Foods, where he loved being part of the Seafood Department family. His friendliness and willingness to help made him a valued member of the team.

Tanner is survived by his parents, Mike and Kristen; his siblings Michael, Tyler, Sheila, Adonis, and Keyden; his great-grandmother, Saulange and Eileen; grandparents, Charlene, Dennis, Nancy, Pete and Teresa. He is also lovingly remembered by his great uncles Ted, Ken (Jocelyn), Trevor and Andrew, great aunts Audrey, Heather, Sherry [Peter] and Mary-Anne; uncles Jake and Kayne, aunts Cyndi (Will), Ashley (Chris), Tiffany and Leanne, and uncle Andrew (Victoria). Great Great Uncle George and Great Great Aunt Marie and their family. His loving cousins, Regan, Madison, Olivia, Ethan, Kieara, Brayden, Harlan, Reggie, Frank, Joe, Kristin (Stephano), Orla, Eleni, Popi, Sage, Madison, Meghan and Logan. Tanner’s girlfriend Tamara and her mom Effie including numerous other extended family and friends including his Thrifty Family and YSTAR.

Tanner was predeceased by his great-grandpas Joe and Roger, Grandpas Mike and Jamie, cousin Zane, his best friend Rylan (BK), and his beloved cat Tazzy Baby, all of whom now welcome him with love.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Search and Rescue, the many caring citizens who offered support, and the brave members of the RCMP West Coast Marine (plus Glen), RCMP Officers Dale, Kim, Michelle, Brett, Darren and the “behind the scenes” team. An extra-special thank-you is extended to Constable Vincent Clandening, who led everyone through this difficult process with compassion, unwavering dedication and strength.

Tanner will be remembered not only for the light he brought into the world but also for the way he made others feel seen, understood, and cared for. His absence leaves an ache that words cannot fully express, but his spirit lives on in the memories, stories, and love he leaves behind.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Oyster Bay Resorts, located at 4357 Island Hwy S, Campbell River, BC. The event will be held from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that any contributions be made to the GoFundMe campaign at: https://gofund.me/5e36d6b8b

Gone too Soon

I do not cry for the sun.

I do not cry for the moon.

I cry for you – for you are gone - too soon.