Joseph R. Gillman

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Joseph Robert Gillman, a devoted husband and loving father and grandfather. Joe passed away with family by his side after a recent illness.

Born May 24, 1944 in Bay City, MI, Joseph was the son of Betty Jane Yoder and Robert E. Gillman. He was a top graduate of Visitation High School, and began studies at U of M before taking on an apprenticeship at General Motors. He embarked on a lifelong journey, raising his family along with his beloved wife, Paulette (Dzurka) Gillman.

Joe retired after 40 years from Bay City General Motors as a skilled tool and die maker and CAD designer. A dedicated and hard-working provider for his family, he instilled a good work ethic for his children.

In his younger years, Joe played city league basketball and made time to coach his children’s basketball and softball teams. He was a supportive father, helping to develop each of his children’s interests and talents. Joe enjoyed spending time with family and friends going fishing, boating, blueberry picking and playing card games. A die-hard Michigan Wolverines fan, he faithfully displayed his maize and blue U of M flag even through their losing seasons.

In retirement his passion was gardening. He took great pride in his meticulous yard, cultivating beauty with the same patience and care he showed in all aspects of his life. He proudly shared his knowledge of each plant name and variety grown in his yard with any person who asked to walk the grounds.

Joe was a firm believer of staying active throughout life, taking on handy man jobs and always willing to help his children, nieces, nephews and friends with odd jobs and many home improvement projects. Throughout the years he volunteered his help at Bay City’s historic Trombley House, St Catherine of Sienna Church, the Punta Gorda, FL St. Vincent DePaul food bank and the Punta Gorda History Garden. Other times you could find him helping out his sons at their business.

Joe loved the sunshine and warmth of winters spent in Punta Gorda, FL along with Paulette and their special friends. He also enjoyed taking road trips and seeing new sights. During summer months he loved to travel to the U.P. to appreciate God’s country at the cottage in Big Bay along Lake Superior.

Joe was a voracious crossword puzzler and loved word games and watching Jeopardy to keep his mind sharp, and he also liked to read and listen to music during quiet times. He had an inquisitive mind and was adept at figuring things out, researching and tackling each project.

Joe leaves behind the love of his life, Paulette. He was a dedicated father to his four children and spouses: Suzette (Michael) Page, John (Kimberly) Gillman, Jerrod (Jennifer) Gillman and Natalie (Brian) Kinder. He loved and adored his grandchildren, who brought so much joy and pride in his life: Elaina, Mitchell, Hayden, Frankie and Fielding. His wisdom and kindness shaped their lives in countless ways, leaving them with cherished memories and lessons that will endure for generations.

He is also survived by his older brother and sister, Michael Gillman and Mary Bednar, half-sister, Beverly Timm, and stepbrother, Larry Ouellette along with numerous other relatives. His younger sister, Patty Gillman Smith, predeceased him.

Joe will be remembered so fondly for his gentle demeanor, giving heart, and warm smiles by his family and many friends and neighbors.

Visitation for Joseph will be held at Gephart Funeral Home in Bay City Michigan Monday, May 5th from 3-8 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, May 6th at 11:00 a.m. with visiting directly at the church starting at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the St. Catherine of Siena Parish Food Pantry or St. Catherine of Siena Pipe Organ Fund.