JOHN HELGI GILLIS

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JOHN HELGI GILLIS December 10, 1948 - April 22, 2016 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Helgi Gillis on April 22, 2016 at the Grace General Hospital. Helgi was born in Wynyard, SK on December 10, 1948 to Doris and Ben Gillis. He was a much loved son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, great-uncle, nephew, cousin and friend. Remaining to cherish Helgi's memory are his siblings, Joe (Carole), Beverley, Lynn (Jane), and Grace (Greg); nephews and nieces, Rich (Darcee, Camryn, Erik), Jamie (Carola), Tim (Diana, Brandon, Sarah), Vanessa (Jason), Connor, and Robyn; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Helgi was predeceased by, and has now been reunited with, his parents, Doris and Ben Gillis; grandparents, Mary and Anton Suek and Snjolaug and Joseph Gillis; and other family members. We would like to say a special thank you to Anna, Rick, Magda, and his friends on Roseberry Street who also cared for and about Helgi and were his second family. We know you are missing him too. Previous to retiring in 2014, Helgi worked at Flightcraft Maintenance Services where he found like-minded people who shared his passion for airplanes. He also volunteered at the Western Canada Aviation Museum for a number of years where he assisted in the restoration of antique airplanes. He was especially honoured to receive an award for his volunteer work from the Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Helgi's memory to the Manitoba Schizophrenia Society. A celebration of Helgi's life will take place on Saturday, June 4, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at The United Church in Meadowood, 1111 Dakota Street, Winnipeg with a reception to follow. Reverend Gordon Taylor officiating. Cremation has taken place. A private family interment will occur at a later date.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 30, 2016