Harold George GILLIS

I just learned of Hal's passing and send belated regards to James and family. Hal and Pearl were close friends of my parents (Al and Jean Kerley) and Hal was a respected shipmate of my dad's. I have fond memories of our families together in Ottawa and Victoria in the 1950s and 60s. As an awkward adolescent, I loved visiting Hal and Pearl. They treated me like a grownup and always got a smile. Though our families kept in touch long distance over the years,
Hal and I communicated more often after his visit to Victoria in 2005. My parents had recently passed away and we shared memories and laughs. After discovering we were both avid readers, we began emailing book recommendations back and forth along with other news. It was wonderful to know that Hal was not only a friend of my parents, but also a friend of mine. I think of him as a strong but gentle soul and a fine example of a life well-lived.

I enjoyed my visits to Stillwater to visit Uncle Hal - we enjoyed walks, good talks, meeting his friends, always a glass of wine before dinner and a nice dinner in or out. I'll miss you, Uncle Hal, my visits to Ottawa will never be the same, thanks for your kindness and hospitality. Rest in peace. xoxo

Deeply regret the too early loss of a fine shipmate and fellow Nova Scotian friend for some 73 years.