(March 13, 1938-February 4, 2012)
With the peaceful passing of Rolly Gillis, we lost a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend whose memory will be cherished, and playful presence missed. Rolly’s loving family was constantly by his side in his final weeks where they all enjoyed singing along with him to his own recordings.
Rolly is survived by wife Vivian, their five children Dean Simpson, Diane Hill, Colleen Gillis, Kathy Sherwood, Ken Gillis and their spouses, sister Louise Crowe-Swords and her three children, and his beloved 12 grandchildren who affectionately called him Bumpa. “The Yahkman,” as he was fondly known in the Penticton area, had a successful career in radio throughout various locations in BC including CHPQ in Parksville, with his final stop at Great Valleys Radio, CIGV in Penticton.
Rolly had a lifelong passion and incredible talent for singing and gardening, both of which have been passed down and continue to live on through his family. Thank you Bumpa, ”ya done good!” The family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff at Penticton Regional Hospital for the excellent care they provided.
A celebration of his life will be held at 1:00 pm Saturday, March 3, 2012 at Everden Rust Funeral Services, 1130 Carmi Ave, Penticton.
Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.everdenrust.com