The family of Robert “Bob” Gillman are saddened to announce his peaceful passing at Hogarth Riverview Manor on May 2, 2024, with loving family by his side. Bob was born May 29th, 1939 to parents Marg and Herb Gillman, in Fort William. It was here he attended both elementary and secondary school. Bob entered the workforce beginning with Loblaws, where he worked his way up to managing a store in Winnipeg, MB. He was then offered a position as a sales representative with Proctor and Gamble, where he remained for 30 years, until his retirement in 1996. He met the love of his life, Lorraine (nee: Zizman), in 1960. The two were married December 12, 1964 and remained happily married for 59 years.
Bob was very active in his community for his entire life. Volunteering for numerous organizations such as ACT, The Alzheimer’s Society, TBRHSC, The Blues Festival, CLE, and was very involved with the air shows in the late 90’s. He was also heavily involved with the ski jumping community for many years, spending countless hours at Big Thunder. He became involved with FIS as a result of this, eventually becoming a technical delegate and certified judge for ski jumping. He acted as Chief of Competition for many local events, including the World Nordics in 1995. As a loyal member of the Masons, he was proud of achieving his 33rd degree in Scottish Rite. He also served as Master of Kam Lodge for two years, where he previously served as secretary for a number of years.
Bob had many interests and hobbies throughout the years, ranging from woodworking, to HAMM radio operating, ski jumping, and water skiing in his younger years. He loved spending time out at the family camp on Shebandowan, where he treasured the time spent with family and friends. He enjoyed cooking gourmet meals, from which his loved ones greatly benefited and cherished their time spent together. Bob was very friendly and outgoing and he developed many strong friendships over the years. He had a great sense of humor, and many goofy nicknames for his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Left behind to mourn this tremendous loss are the love of his life, Lorraine; children, Laura (John) Sobolta, Todd (Melodie) Gillman, and Kristen (Greg) Campagna; grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Carlie, Joshua, Hallie, Carson, Amelia, Matthew, and Sophia; great-grandchildren, Emma, Quinn, Wyatt, Logan, Ryder, and Lilly. He is also survived by his brother Bill (Dale) Gillman; sisters-in-law, Judy Muloin, and Sharon Zizman; brother-in-law, Ron Zizman, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members.
Predeceased by his parents, Marg and Herb Gillman; sister, Sandra Silvey; and brothers-in-law, Peter Silvey, Wilf Muloin, and David Brimmell.
As per his wishes, cremation has taken place. A service honouring Bob’s life will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church - 207 BRODIE ST SOUTH - beginning at 11:00am. A private interment will take place following the service.
The family would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the staff of Hogarth Riverview Manor – 3N Lily, for their excellent care over the years.
If so desired, in lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s memory to The Alzheimer’s Society of Thunder Bay would be greatly appreciated.
Online condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
