Rodger Daniel Gillis

Roger Daniel Gillis, 42 of New Westminster, BC formally from Southwest Margaree, Cape Breton, NS passed on to be with the Lord on March 31, 2012 after a courageous battle with lung cancer. Born in Windsor, Ontario on Sept 26, 1969. Eldest son of Donald and Florence Gillis of Southwest Margaree. He is survived by his wife, Eleethia and beloved daughter Anasia. Survived by his siblings Lorraine Cascadden (Windsor), Jenny Gillis (Windsor), Corrina MacMillan (Port Hood), Roxanne Esty (New Hampshire), Shannon-Lee Alibegovic (Caledonia), Preston Gillis (Sydney) and Cheyenne Brown (Massachusetts). He leaves behind seven nephews and nieces; Jesse, Dillon, Myles, Jevitt, Kirsten, Isabelle and Breagh. He also leaves behind a Godson, Daniel MacDonald. A Welder Fabricator by trade, he was a proud and dedicated employee of Valmont West Coast Engineering. Also a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Boiler Makers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths and Forgers, Lodge No. 359 and member of the Marine Workers’ and Boilermakers’ Industrial Union Local No.1.

A dedicated husband, father, son, brother and uncle whose love, support, devotion and laughter will be sadly missed. Roger’s quiet determination and humble spirit was an inspiration to those who loved and cherished him. A true Cape Bretoner at heart Roger will be remembered for his love of history and his ability to tell a wonderful story which of course was always accompanied by a good cup of hot tea. Roger will be remembered for his enduring hope and faith in the Lord and his keen awareness of the precious gift of life.

Special thanks to the staff at the Fraser Valley Cancer Clinic, Surrey, BC and Royal Columbian Hospital for their wonderful care and support throughout his illness. Local services to be held at Kearney Funeral Home, New Westminster, BC on Tuesday April 3rd at 6:30 pm and mass at St. Peters Catholic Church on April 4th at noon. Remains to be transported home to Cape Breton for wake at the Gillis Family home on Monday April 9th from 2-4 and 7-9 pm. Funeral mass will be held in St. Joesph’s Church, Southwest Margaree on Tuesday, April 10th at 11 am with Fr. Doug MacDonald officiating, burial in the parish cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donation to Fraser Valley Cancer Clinic, Surrey, BC or Christian Children’s Fund of Canada will be greatly appreciated.

on-line condsolences may be made to www.invernessfuneralhome.com