Obituaries

Ralph Alexander Gillis

February 19, 1929 - August 13, 2020

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Obituary For Ralph Alexander Gillis

Ralph Alexander Gillis, resident of Beaverlodge, AB, formerly of South Taylor, BC, passed away on Thursday, August 13, 2020, at the age of 91 years, surrounded by his loving wife and three children.

Ralph was born to Alexander and Corrine Gillis on February 19, 1929, in Ingonish, Cape Breton, NS. At the age of 17, he joined the merchant marines. When he left the sea, he went into construction and started a steeplejack business in Calgary, AB. After selling the business, he purchased land in South Taylor, BC and became a market gardener. Looking for adventure and to enjoy his hobbies, he moved to Kitsault, BC to be a caretaker for a deserted molybdenum mine. His last employment before retirement was with the Forestry where he worked on remote lookout towers in BC and Alberta, which he thoroughly enjoyed along with his wife Evelyn.

Ralph always enjoyed the outdoors, particularly hunting and fishing. He spent many hours playing cards and games with his family. He loved to tell jokes and always had the ability to make those around him smile.

He will be sadly missed by his wife Evelyn (the love of his life); daughter Linda James (Norm); sons Jeff Gillis (Jaci) and David Gillis; 10 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; and 4 sisters: Tillie, Betty, June and Paulette.

A Graveside Service will be held in Taylor, BC at a later date due to Covid19.

A special thanks to Dr. Clow and the staff at the Beaverlodge Hospital.

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Condolences

  • June 24, 2021

    We didn�t see you or Uncle Ralph often but when we did It left our hearts full of joy! It�s comforting knowing he lived life to the fullest & was surrounded by your love in his passing. Sending heartfelt condolences to you all. Much love, Lynn Doucette

  • June 24, 2021

    Dear Evelyn & family, I was so sad to hear of uncle Ralphââ?¬â?¢s passing. My thoughts are with you & your family at this most difficult time of your lives. Unfortunately I know how it feels & no one can take your pain away ðŸË?¢. He was one of a kind....Sending you all much âÂ?¤ï¸Â?. Joan.

  • June 24, 2021

    So sorry to hear of Ralph�s passing. Sending big hugs and lots of love from Ingonish.��������

  • June 24, 2021

    Dear Evelyn and family.we are all sad now,but just thinking of his cheerful way makes me smile,and loved the way he was always one hundred and ten percent no matter how he felt. Take care and keep in touch. Much love Betty.

  • June 24, 2021

    So sorry to hear about Uncle Ralph�s passing. I know he will be sadly missed by everyone in the family. Although we did not see each other we often thought of Uncle Ralph and his family and were always in tough at Christmas time. I fondly remember a visit with my mom, Tilly. The jokes between my brother Wayne and uncle Ralph were non stop. I am thinking the laughter will be also not stop in heaven. Hugs to all. Love Corrine and Cedric

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