Kyle F. GILLETT

GILLETT, Kyle F. age 66, of Tucson, AZ and formally of East Providence, Cranston and Barrington, RI, died peacefully at home on April 20, 2017, from chronic illnesses he developed, secondary to dioxin poisoning, after exposure to strong defoliants while serving the United States of America, in the Vietnam War. Kyle was born May 21, 1950 to Frank and Marie (Arruda) Gillett. He is survived by his wife, Patricia (Gungle) Gillett; two sons, Angus Gillett of Providence, RI and Christopher Gillett of Tucson, AZ and two step-daughters; a sister, Carole Dawley and a brother, Kevin Gillett; and nieces and nephews. Kyle had lived all his life in Rhode Island until moving to Tucson, AZ with his wife and younger son in 2007. Kyle served in the United States Army from 1969-1971 and received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Good Conduct Medal First Award. After receiving an honorable discharge from the United States Army, Kyle continued his education, receiving a BA degree in Theatre Arts from RI College. Due to the progression of his illness, he was not able to pursue a career in theatre as had been his aspiration. Instead, when his health would allow, he worked part-time in security. Kyle loved his children and they were what gave him meaning to do his best and rise above what would be expected, given his illness and go on despite worsening health. He will be missed by his many family and friends. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 2, 2017 from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. at DESERT SUNSET FUNERAL CHAPEL. Funeral Service will be held following visitation at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow in the summer of 2017 in Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Exeter, RI. In lieu of flowers, Donations may be made in Kyle F. Gillett's name for the "Giant Armadillo Project" and mailed to Reid Park Zoological Society, 1030 S. Randolph Way, Tucson, AZ 85716.