Robert Kenneth Gillis

1938 - 2017

ROBERT KENNETH GILLIS

Robert Kenneth Gillis was born February 12, 1938 in Newark, New Jersey and passed peacefully on February 16, 2017. He was the first born and only son of Archibald and Rita Gillis. He is survived by his sisters Marilyn (Jack), Barbara (Mike), and Rita. He was married for over 57 years and survived by his beloved wife Adrienne. He was also a loving father to his sons Robert Jr (Jill) and Richard (Diana) as well as a doting grandfather to Robbie, Ricky, Michael and Stephen and a loving uncle to his many nephews and nieces.
He grew up in Newark and Clark Township in NJ. He spent his early childhood as a choirboy and alter boy in the Catholic church. He was a natural athlete and excelled in basketball and baseball. He was an avid reader as well as a huge sports fan, proudly calling himself a second generation New York Yankee fan. He also loved Notre Dame football.
After graduating from Regional High School in 1955, he enlisted in the United States Air Force where he went on to serve his country for 23 years. He was stationed in England where he met the love of his life, Adrienne. They were so happy that their first born son, Bobby, was coming along that they decided to have a wedding. Seventeen months later, the family was complete when Ricky arrived.
During his service to the USAF he achieved the rank of CMSGT and served over three years on isolated tours to Korea, Vietnam and Thailand. He also served a number of years on the Inspector General's team. Throughout his career he received many commendations including the Bronze Star. While serving his country he received his Bachelors Degree from Chapman University. Upon retirement from the USAF he spent twenty-two years with the County of Los Angeles as an Administrative Manager.
Upon retirement from LA County, Bob (as he was known to all) and Adrienne traveled extensively. Not only did his career in the military take him all over the world, he was also able to travel for pleasure. These travels took him across the U.S. to National Parks, England, Ireland, Scotland, Egypt, Greece, New Zealand, and many cruises. In line with his many years of military and civil service, he served on the Riverside County Grand Jury for two years.
Although he was Catholic, he loved and felt very much a part of the Temple Beth El community, where he and his wife are members. He was embraced and respected by the Jewish community and was very much at home there.
The full scope of the vacancy left by his passing is difficult to contemplate, especially by his grateful and devoted family.
Services will be held at 11am, on Thursday, March 2 at Akes Family Chapel, 9695 Magnolia Avenue, Riverside and the burial following at the Riverside National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Temple Beth El, Riverside, or another charity of your choice. Arrangements Entrusted to the Care of

9695 Magnolia Ave., Riverside, CA 92503 (951) 785-4071.
Please go to www.akesfamilyfuneralhome.com
and sign the guest book.