GILLIS HUNTER OWENS

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GILLIS HUNTER OWENS On December 13, 2001 Gillis Hunter Owens ended a courageous battle with cancer. Predeceased by his mother Kaye, father Wes, brother Burt, he leaves his devoted and loving wife of 33 years Diane, his two sons Mark, grandson Hunter, and Troy (Nicole), grandsons, Brandon and Austin, adopted daughter Trish, grandsons Brady and Abraham; sister-in-law Bev, sisters Gloria, Kathy-Lyn (Con), Liz; sisters-in-law Elaine, Lynne (Ron), Rita (Ted), Ginette (Rick) numerous nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews, cousins, special friends Chris, David, Eric, Graydon, Jack, Laurie. Gillis was born in Portage la Prairie on September 11, 1949 the first child of Wes and Kaye Owens of High Bluff. He attended school in High Bluff and graduated from Arthur Meighen High School in Portage la Prairie. He continued a path of life long learning. He played hockey with Poplar Point, wearing an A on his jersey. He and his brother Burt helped their father on the grain farm. Gillis hunted with the Owens "establishment" for many years, a great tradition. Gillis met Diane in the summer of 1967 while working in St. Pierre Jolys for Pool Elevators. It was the classic love at first sight and this love continued for the entire duration of their marriage. They married on November 16, 1968 and raised two sons Mark and Troy. Apart from Diane, his sons and grandchildren were his passion. Chess champ of the family, his love of sports, especially hockey and curling, were surpassed only by his favourite past time - eating Dianes cooking. He started his work life with Jansens Produce, catching a ride to work every day in the back of a truck, while providing for his young family. He finished his career with Independent Fish Inc. Gilliss employer described him as dedicated and trustworthy with a great knowledge of his work. During his illness he went to work on many days solely of his own choice. Gillis volunteered in Kinsmen for many years and also coached his sons hockey teams. Gillis was most content when he had his grandchildren on his lap. There were many family gatherings in Stonewall. Gillis maintained a balanced attitude towards life. This trait was admired by all, especially his attitude towards his illness as being in the hands of a higher power. Gillis was never one to embellish himself or create a lot of fanfare. This is why we have great pleasure in telling about him today. He was honest, kind and had a wry humour. We celebrate his life and will be forever saddened that it had to be cut short. We will ensure that his grandchildren will continue to learn more about the fine person their grandfather was. There are many waiting to welcome him to his final resting place. The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who showed compassion to Gillis in his final months...to the Cancer Clinic at St. Boniface Hospital (especially Heather), to Dr. Daeninck, Dr. Crow, Dr. Harlos; the staff (especially Dianne, Sherri, Jennifer), volunteers, Sister Rose, and Neeche of the Palliative Care Unit at St. Boniface Hospital. Special thank you from Diane to: sister Ginette and husband Rick, and neighbour Graydon for making a final visit home possible for Gillis; to neighbours, Graydon and Wayne for their countless acts of kindness; to Glenna for everything; to Kathy, Gloria and Liz for their unconditional love and support. Family and friends recognize with deepest admiration and gratitude, the remarkable love that Diane and Gillis shared. "In sickness and in health", there was no finer caregiver. During the illness, Diane was constantly at his side, knowing his every need. We wish to share the verse that inspired balance in Gilliss life... God, grant me the Serenity To accept the things I cannot change, Courage, To change the things I can, and Wisdom To know the difference. Gillis, we love you and will miss you forever. A note from Diane... You were the love of my life and now you are gone, not sure how I can go on. I loved you from the day we met, not once since then has there been regret. No days to come will make me forget The love we shared and the soul mates we were. Rest in peace my love and know that we will be together forever some day... In lieu of flowers, donations are gratefully accepted for the Palliative Care Unit at St. Boniface General Hospital and the Cancer Research Foundation, 409 Tache, Winnipeg, R2H 2A6. The funeral service will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, December 17 at St. James Anglican Church, 195 Collegiate Street with a lunch to follow. Arrangements are in care of Adams Funeral Services, 1-888-400-ADAM.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 15, 2001