JANICE GILL (STIRLING)

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

JANICE GILL (nee STIRLING) June 17, 1957- July 24, 2006 After a long illness with a brain tumour Janice Gill, aged 49 passed away with her family and friends by her side. Predeceased by her parents, Wilfred and Victoria Stirling, she leaves to mourn her husband Don Gill; brother Darren Stirling (Debbie and Michael); brothers-in-law, Ron Gill (Wendy) and Bob Gill (Heidi, Scott and Christopher); aunts, uncles, many cousins and close friends. Janice was born and raised in Winnipeg, living in the Fort Garry area for most of her life. In 1984 Janice met Don and in 1993 they married. They began to care for their family of dogs. All 11 pets were special to Janice. She paid attention to each one of their needs. Caring for her dogs was a way of life and a priority for Janice. Janice has always supported the Winnipeg Humane Society and its ideals. Janice and Don shared many good years together. Janice's interest in married life ranged from working out together, dog walking and cooking gourmet vegetarian meals. Janice worked for years in the family business, Tony's Pizza. She enjoyed meeting and getting to know the repeat customers, often heading out on delivery. Janice also did ordering, record keeping and spent time with staff. (Her Tony's family). Janice, her mother and brother share a unique closeness that developed during childhood. Her family has always been a major support in good times and during her illness. Sharing holidays, visits and phone calls; Janice drew strength from family members as they played an active role in her life. Janice was also excited to become an Auntie to Michael. She looked forward to her nephew's development and watch his character grow. Auntie Janice loved to brag about Michael regularly! Michael became a bright spot for Janice. Janice had many friends from school days in Fort Garry, working friends from Tony's, Athletics Manitoba, Manitoba Runner's Association and the running community. Janice was close to and respected her running coaches Chris McCubbins and Ken Perchaluk. She trusted in their programs and felt connected to both. Janice's many girlfriends could not have had a more loyal friend. Janice's passion for life, witty sense of humor and supportive nature will not be forgotten. The running community in Winnipeg will dearly miss Janice Gill. As a competitor she was a champion and fiercely disciplined athlete. Janice won many races for more than a decade. Janice was sponsored by Saucony Canada for many years. Janice still holds a number of course records in Manitoba including the Masters Women's 1/2 Manitoba Marathon record. Janice enjoyed racing and training to become faster. She was driven to be the best and in her prime within the province she was the top female roadrunner. Janice has experienced a perfect season; she was 1st in all races she participated in for a whole year. An outstanding accomplishment. Janice also believed in building up her sport and volunteered at many races with friends. She was a race director with runners in mind. She helped long time friends Pat and Jim with the Puma Series for many years and in countless ways. Both Athletics Manitoba and Manitoba Runners Association have recently acknowledged Janice's years of service to the running community with awards at a special brunch. Janice showed commitment and skill through her volunteerism. More than anything Janice loved to run. Before she came ill her day revolved around training schedules. Janice traveled to many National Championships to represent Manitoba. She enjoyed running with people. The support of others helped Janice to keep her focus. Even during her illness Janice always set high standards for herself. The doctors, nurses and aides over the last year have worked hard to help Janice. Family and friends thank ALL of you who showed compassion during this challenging time. You all helped to make this situation a little easier. Thank you. A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, July 31 at 2:00 p.m., Fort Garry United Church, 800 Point Rd. A private interment is planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to CancerCare Manitoba or Winnipeg Humane Society in Janice's memory. In God's love and care - May your mind be clear and peaceful, Your heart fill with joy, And your feet be fleet always.

Make a donation to

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 28, 2006