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He was the son of Dr. Noel John Gillette and Dr. Lynn Daugherty Gillette. He leaves behind a sister, Karen Gillette Allen (William) of Zanesville, Ohio, a brother, Keith Gillette (Crystal) of Scottsdale, Arizona, and a sister, Susan Gillette Meer (Karl) of Pittsburgh, PA. He also leaves behind nine nieces and nephews, Matthew Allen, Miranda Warner (Stephen), Emily Allen, and Eric Allen, Kimberly Gillette, David Gillette, and Kelly Gillette; Morgan Meer and Everitt Meer. Growing up in Pittsburgh, he attended Churchill High School (Class of 1980) and graduated from Westminster College in 1984 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. As a child, he enjoyed activities with the Boy Scouts. In his early adult years, he volunteered as a Boy Scout leader and coached softball for his younger sister's summer team. His passion in life, however, was the game of bridge, playing since 1984 and traveling around the world for tournaments. He achieved Gold Life Master status in the American Contract Bridge League with almost 3,000 points and played professionally. In 1993, he was named the National Bridge Champion of the Red Ribbon Pairs event. He taught many people to play bridge over the years with a patient and caring attitude. A private memorial service for family will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, contributions may go to The Food Pantry at Zion Lutheran 11609 Frankstown Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15235. Arrangements by BALL FUNERAL CHAPEL, INC.
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5 Entries
Tony Vagnucci
December 4, 2022
I knew John as a teammate on the 1976 Wilkins Junior High wrestling team. We used to play the song "Rubberband Man" in celebration of his athleticism and amazing flexibility. His kindness and gentle temperment ultimately made him loved by all.
I have not seen John for decades and was very sorry to hear of his passing. He was so young. My sincere condolences to his family and friends.
Susan Portnoy
November 25, 2019
I am sorry for your loss. I enjoyed playing as John's bridge partner a few times but enjoyed playing against him even more.
November 24, 2019
John was smart and funny, he will be missed!
William Holt
November 23, 2019
John had an exceptionally sharp mind. And was a fabulous Bridge Player.
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Nurit Elis
November 23, 2019
John was one of the kindest and brightest people I knew. He was a brilliant bridge player and an excellent teacher. He was my bridge mentor. Whenever my husband and I traveled overseas he would ask me to bring back brochures from museums we visited. Always kind, always patient. Hard to believe he passed at such a young age. John, Ami and I miss you dearly. Rest in peace.
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600 Dunster Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15226
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