Harold Joseph Gillis

Harold was born at home in Margaree Forks, on September 12, 1935, to James R. and Theresa (Tompkins) Gillis. The eldest of twelve children, Harold left home at 17 to join the Canadian Army. His mother died suddenly in 1958 leaving a young family without maternal support. Harold helped out financially ensuring the family never went without. His siblings often thanked him years later for his generosity that contributed to their ability to go on to higher education and successful careers. As a non-commissioned officer he spent his eight years in the Canadian Army; posted in Germany, England and the Yukon. He escorted Prince Phillip during a royal visit to Whitehorse in the 1950’s and Harold had the opportunity to take him fishing.

Harold married his wife Geraldine, November 23rd, 1963 and together they had five children: Terri (Toronto, ON), Heather (New Glasgow, NS), Kathleen (Zenon Pk., SK), Holly (Dunrobin, ON), and Jason (Zenon Pk., SK). Harold went back to school while he had a young family to upgrade his education and become a welder. Harold’s career allowed him to work all over Nova Scotia including the Halifax Shipyards. His favorite job however was driving a pulp truck, working for John E. MacLean Enterprises for over 25 years.

In retirement, Harold’s caring and generous persona was certain. Harold cared for his wife of 41 years, when her health had failed, until her death in 2004. When relatives and friends needed assistance to attend medical appointments and run errands Harold was always willing to help, giving of his time and energy. Harold also spent time with all of his children, helping in any way he could. His grandchildren had an opportunity to have quality time with him and come to know his kind and generous spirit.

Harold’s battle with pancreatic cancer was lengthy and he managed to beat the odds several times through his illness. His strength came from his healthy lifestyle; his 4-5 mile daily walks and from his faith in God.

Harold is survived by his children; Terri (Cyril) LeFort, Heather (Kevin) LeBlanc, Kathleen, Holly (Ken) Cox and Jason (Daniele); his siblings: Jean Casey, Kaye Ruthard, Pat (Wayne) Harley, Rosemary (Keith) Bowers, Stuart (May), Douglas (Isabel), Kenneth (Carla), Greg (Janet); his twelve grandchildren Kayla, Bethany, Hannah, Leah, Connor, Matthew, Jacob, Casey, Malcolm, Ranald, Marcus and Molly; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife, Geraldine; his parents, James and Theresa; his siblings, John Dan, Graham, and Gerald (in infancy); his sister in law; Louise Gillis and brothers in law; Peter Casey and Werner Ruthard.

He will be remembered for his generosity, kindness, selflessness and humility as well as his ability to cite any and all Blue Jays stats over the past 25 years. He loved his family very much and was proud of everyone’s accomplishments, no matter how big or small.

Visitation will be from 2-4 and 7-9 pm on Friday, May 13th, 2016, in St. Michael’s Parish Hall in East Margaree. Funeral Mass will be held in St. Michael’s Church, East Margaree on Saturday, May 14th at 11am with Father Barrett Clare Johnson officiating. Family flowers only please. Memorial donations can be made to the Central Inverness Palliative Care Society or the Canadian Cancer Society. On-line condolences may be made to: www.invernessfuneralhome.com.

My Father. He didn’t tell me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it.