Marie E. Gillis

Marie E. Gillis, born January 2, 1939, passed peacefully at home, on her own terms, surrounded by love. She was the kind of woman who didn't just live a long life-she lived a full one. Born in Chimney Rock, Colorado, in a log cabin, and raised in Durango, Marie helped on her parents' ranch from a young age, an upbringing that shaped her strength, independence, and lifelong love of the outdoors. She once worked at the Humane Society and always had a soft spot for cats and dogs.

Marie loved to hunt, fish and work hard, and she never felt the need to talk about what she could do-she just did it.She enjoyed trips to Cripple Creek to play the slot machines, and when she wasn't outdoors, you'd find her working a crossword puzzle. Her Thanksgiving gravy was legendary. Marie was also thrifty and practical, never missing a chance to pick up a coin off the ground because you didn't waste what still had value. She had a sharp sense of humor, good timing, and a way of saying exactly what needed to be said.

She was loyal, steady, and deeply devoted to the people she loved. Marie shared a lifetime of marriage with her husband, Leonard "Junior" Gillis, whom she married on June 21, 1958-a partnership built on commitment, laughter, and lifetime of hollering back and forth to one another as his hearing faded (we think we know why). Together , they built a family that meant everything to her, and she adored her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and loved time spent with them.

Marie was a proud Catholic and dedicated her life to the Lord. She is preceded in death by her husband, Leonard Gillis, Jr., and by Pamela Gillis and Cheryl Gillis. She is survived by her sons, Gary (Annabelle) Gillis and Michael (Patti) Gillis; her grandchildren, Travis Williams, Megan Gillis, and Rachel Curtis; her great-grandchildren, Hunter, Bleu and Sienna; and by her brothers and sisters, nieces, and nephews.

Marie leaves behind a family who will miss her strength, her humor, her independence, her presence, and her gravy more than words can say. She also leaves behind a legacy of resilience, and a life that showed both strength and gentleness can exist in the same person. There will never be another Marie Gillis.

All services will be held at St. Michaels Catholic Church 1016 Mystic Ave, Canon City, CO with Recitation of the Rosary at 4:00pm, Sunday, January 4th; Funeral Mass at 10:00am, Monday, January 5, 2026 with burial to follow at Mountain Vale Memorial Gardens, Canon City, Colorado. Arrangements entrusted to Harwood Cremation and Funeral Services. Online condolences at www.harwoodfunerals.com.