Gillis, David Joseph, age 66, of Antigonish and formerly of St. Andrews passed away on May 8, 2019.

Born in Sydney, he was the oldest son of the late John Anthony and Mary Louise (MacNeil) Gillis.

A draftsman by trade, Dave spent most of his working life as an estimator in the steel fabrication (and oil) industry. His work took him far and away from Guyana to Grassland but ultimately he made his way back home to Nova Scotia.  Dave was skillful and proficient  in many ways and always enthusiastic about sharing his knowledge.  Dave had a kind heart, was never judgmental, and was always willing to lend a helping hand, especially to his family,  Dave had a deep environmental consciousness, loved gardening, and always had a repair project needing his expertise.

He is survived by son, Stephen; daughter, Heather; daughter and best friend Janet (Jack Young); grandchildren, Charlie David Gillis, Hazel Gillis, Myree Bennett-Gillis, and Max Bennett-Gillis; his stepmother Joan, his siblings, Frank (Mary), Ian (Trudy), Jocelyn, Tom (Vicki), Peter, Mary Lou, Edward (Helen), and Anne; and a large extended family.

Predeceased by his father, John Anthony, mother, Lou; and twin siblings in infancy.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 3:00 to 8:00 pm in C.L. Curry Funeral Home, 135 College Street, Antigonish. Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday at 11:00am in St. Ninian Cathedral, Reverend Donald MacGillivray presiding.

In Memoriam, donations to Talbot House or Marguerite Centre appreciated. Online condolences: www.clcurry.com

He did not always choose the safest path, but it was his path.