The family of Robert is profoundly sad to announce his passing. He was embraced by his Lord, our Father in Heaven, on Friday, November 25, 2022, into the loving arms of his late wife Geraldine (Fowler). Robert was brave and steadfast in his final days and peacefully passed with all generations of his family by his side.
Robert was born in Sault Ste. Marie, February 2, 1932 to parents Janet and Thomas Gillgrass. Robert was from a large family being survived by his sister Doris, and his late sisters Isabel, Agnes, Jenny and late brothers Bill and George.
In his teen years he met the love of his life Geraldine and they spent many of their days at Wilcox Park, ice skating, attending movies, dinners and dances. When Robert and Gerry were married he welcomed into his family the Fowlers, parents Gertrude and Harry and brothers and sisters in laws, Harvey (Helen), Wayne (Theresa) and late Valerie (Keith).
Robert and Gerry set up their 'homestead' on Idaho Drive and were blessed to have four children; Robert Gillgrass Jr. (Karen), Thomas Gillgrass, Sandra Smith (Terry) and Paula Thomas (Mark). Robert became grandpa/papa to his true pride and joys; Allison Notte, Michael Gillgrass, Darcie Nelli (Adam), Dean Smith (Katie), Kendra Smith (Chris), Matthew Thomas (Brittany) and Stephanie Morin (Alex). He was a very special great-grandpa/papa to Britton and Easton Notte, Declan and Oaklyn Nelli, Claire Gillgrass and of course his fur grandchildren Nella, Lily, Bauer, Cole and Poppy. Robert also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.
Robert worked hard to provide for his family as a supervisor at Algoma Steel in the Coke Making department. Community was very important to him and so he donated a portion of his weekly earnings for the building of the Group Health Centre in the 60s and became known as a 'First Bricker' because of this.
Robert became a patriarch of the neighbourhood over the years on Idaho Drive as they entertained in the pool. He was always there to help his neighbours. Later in life, even up until his final moments his neighbours returned all their love to help out, send food and visit with their dogs. Robert's love for dogs was like no other and we are certain that there were many of them we lost over the years waiting for a treat as he passed.
Robert had a strong Catholic faith and was a member of St. Jerome's parish. He saw members of his family married, baptised and had final farewells there. The church especially provided him a safe place after his wife passed away. We are certain he truly felt the most connected to her at church. He attended many pancake breakfasts and Christmas masses with his family. He was so very proud to show off his family at church.
Robert wanted to see his family happy and enjoy the luxuries of life that he did not when he was younger. He worked hard to save money with his frugal and meticulous coupon clipping and flyer review on a weekly basis. He knew where all the deals were. With the money he saved he was able to purchase the family camp on Marlette Bay in the 80s. He loved that his family made so many memories over the years there. He much preferred to feed and watch the birds and wildlife, surrounded by the beautiful calming sounds of the great Lake Superior.
Robert, like clock work would be up before the crack of dawn to attend the George Leach Centre at Algoma University. He loved seeing his gym buddies, the university staff and walking around the track. Robert's last outing was with his granddaughters for his victory lap around the track.
Robert enjoyed bowling and golfing. He even was able to achieve a hole-in-one! He enjoyed making wine, and reaping the benefits of that - his family also enjoyed reaping those benefits. His tomatoes were top notch. He spent many mornings meeting with his buddies at Country Style and McDonalds. Robert's love and support for his family was always prominent whether it be a hockey game, a race around the Hub Trail, or just an ear to listen. His house was always welcome to his family whether it was an overnight sleepover or an extended stay. He did so much for all of us.
The family cannot be more thankful for the support of extended family, friends and neighbours during Robert's final days as he wished to be able to stay at home. The health care providers in our community supported him so compassionalty; Dr. Mary Wilson, Susan, Carol, Laura, and Katrina and all of the other amazing care givers from our community. Words cannot express how much your care meant for our beloved Robert.
A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday November 29, 2022 at 11 am at St. Jerome's Parish. Interment at Holy Sepulchre cemetery. Rev. Jeff Shannon. Memorial contributions (payable by cheque or online) would be appreciated to ARCH or Algoma University (George Leach). Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.arthurfuneralhome.com for the Gillgrass family.