It is with great sadness that we, the family of John Kenneth "Kenny" Gillis of Iqaluit, Nunavut, and formerly from Judique, Nova Scotia, announce his untimely passing on December 13, 2024.
Born in 1962, Kenny was the son of the late John and Eleanor (Morrisey) Gillis. The youngest of fourteen, Kenny was not only charismatic but had a kind soul.
He ventured off to Grise Fiord, Northwest Territories, in 1989 for a job his brother, Billy, invited him to join. Once he experienced the northern life, he never looked back, although he was still very proud of his roots. He remained very kind and supportive to his mother (Mama), especially in her later years.
Kenny is survived by his beautiful daughter, Oceanna, who he cherished and loved with all his heart. She was not only his "monkey" but his greatest support until the very end, offering comfort and endless love. Oceanna’s mother, Robyn, made sure Oceanna spent every moment she could with her Dad, while offering love and support to them both. Kenny is also survived by his siblings, Knowell, Windsor, ON; Cecelia, Antigonish, NS; Fraser (Anne), Glendale, AZ; Joan (late Joe), Windsor, ON; Shirley (John Willie), Judique, NS; Hughene (Gregory), Judique, NS; Carson, Judique, NS; Billy (Margie), Fort McMurray, AB; and Cathy, Windsor, ON. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews which includes his Godson and namesake, Joel Kenneth MacNeil.
Kenny was predeceased by siblings, Bernie, Francis, Clifford, Gladys, and Joseph in infancy.
We would like to extend our gratitude to Kenny’s niece, Shelley, who gave so much of her love and time to help care for an uncle she adored during his illness. We would also like to give special thanks to Don Galloway, his best friend of 40 years, who cared for and supported him until the very end. To have a friend like Don is a blessing.
Kenny held several management positions during his many years in Iqaluit, firstly in his own business, Integrity CPMS, also with Northview Property, and Baffin Mary River Mine. Along with spending precious time with his "Monkey", he enjoyed boating, camping, and just simply relaxing at his cabin. He thoroughly enjoyed reading the last number of years, a trait he shared with his father (Papa).
Special thanks to Dr. Rebekha Murphy, Dr. Kota Chen, and the team at Bruyere St. Vincent Hospice. Kenny received compassionate and exceptional care in his final days.
Upon request, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will take place in the summer of 2025 at Kenny’s homestead on the Shore Road in Judique, NS. Further details will be announced at a later date. Burial will take place alongside his beloved parents and sister, Gladys.
Oceanna would like to encourage anyone who is able to take part in the Terry Fox Run, to help find a cure for the terrible disease that took her Dad away. Donations may be made to the Judique Cemetery Fund, or simply tell a good story, as we are sure there are many. Prayers always welcome.
In Kenny’s words "I love you all!"
"Peace Out"