Obituary of Daniel Thomas Gillis

 Daniel ‘Dan’ Thomas Gillis

It is with heavy hearts we announce the unexpected passing of Daniel ‘Dan’ Gillis, at his residence in Guysborough, on Friday, April 25, 2025 at the age of 73. Dan was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, whose warmth, wisdom, and kindness touched the lives of all who knew him.

Born in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Dan lived a life filled with love, integrity, and service to others. He worked for the CIBC for many years in various communities. Dan then became administrator of Guysborough Options for Adaptive Living Society which brought him great joy. He served as the Executive Director of the Guysborough County Regional Development Authority and later was the Administrator of the Milford Haven Nursing Home. Dan was also a devoted member of the Guysborough Lions Club. Through these roles, Dan made lasting contributions that helped make Guysborough Municipality a better place to live.

Known for his sunny disposition and the friendliest of smiles, Dan was a friend to all and a beloved member of his community. He faced the challenges of dementia in his final years with quiet strength and grace. Though the illness touched his memory, it never dimmed the warmth of his heart or the kindness in his eyes. Dan had a keen love for music that never waned, even during his seven-year battle with dementia, as he continued to hum and sing along to his favorite songs.

Dan found his greatest joy in his family, for more than 50 years of his life. He raised six wonderful children and was the proud grandfather to nine grandchildren. His hobbies revolved around his family and his love of travel led him on many road trips and flights to visit them across Alberta, Ontario, and Bermuda. Dan loved his time on the golf course, enjoying not just the game, but the laughs and good company that came with it.

Dan is survived by his wife, Ursula; his children, Lisa Bowers (Dennis), Gatineau; Helen Gillis-Cooze (Michael), Bermuda; Jeff Gillis (Amy), Fort McMurray, Hannah, Ottawa; Harrison (Allie), Guysborough; Sinclair Ryan (Arianne), Point Tupper, nine beloved grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. Dan also had a wide circle of loyal and dedicated friends, including Marian Brow, his cherished caregiver.

Dan is predeceased by his parents, James and Sadie (Doolan) Gillis, his chosen sister, Julie and his adoring Mother-in-law, Helen (McIntyre) McNamara.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 1st at St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church, 86 Church Street, Guysborough from 3-6p.m.

Funeral service will be held on Friday, May 2nd, at 11a.m. with a reception to follow at the Chedabucto Lifestyle Complex, 60 Green Street, Guysborough. Family flowers only please. Donations can be made to the Guysborough & Area Dementia Support Group (Mailing address Po Box 267, Guysborough, NS, B0H 1N0) in his honor.

He will be dearly missed and forever remembered for his love, kindness, and the light he brought into our lives. A true gentleman in every sense, Dan lived with unwavering love for his family. He taught us patience, the power of a soft- spoken word, and the enduring strength of quiet kindness.

Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Dennis Haverstock Funeral Home, Guysborough. Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at: www.haverstocks.com