With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Frederick Ronald "Ron" Edward Gillies, a beloved brother, uncle, and friend, whose kindness and warmth touched all who knew him. Born on August 21, 1948, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Ron's life was a testament to the values of compassion, generosity, and a deep connection to his prairie roots.
Ron is predeceased by his parents, John Edward Gillies and Elinore Alice (Blain) Gillies; his brother, Val Todd Gillies; and his brother-in-law, Raymond Friedrich Gottleib Steinke. Ron leaves behind cherished memories with his brother, Jon Austin (Mary) Gillies; his sister, Lynne Elinore Gillies-Steinke; his nephew, Jon Frederick Austin (Caroline) Gillies; and his nieces, Kimberley Lori-Lynne (Dean) Rathwell and Rachael Loretta Lynne (Mably) Steinke. Ron was also a proud great-uncle to Tyler Jonathan Frederick Gillies, Sebastian "Bash" Jack Llorente, and Gaia Rose Janet Llorente, who brought him much joy and laughter.
A true son of the prairies, Ron's love for Saskatchewan ran deep, and he made the province his lifelong home. After studying Agriculture at the University of Saskatchewan, he cultivated a life rich with nature, spending many happy years on an acreage west of Saskatoon. There, he found his passion for gardening, tree farming and fish farming, often sharing the fruits of his labor with family and friends.
Ron's creativity and craftsmanship shone through his work as a talented artisan and woodworker, showcasing his handmade goods at local craft markets. An outdoorsman at heart, he delighted in golfing with his siblings and loved the Saskatchewan Roughriders, sharing post-game reflections with his brother Jon.
His gentle soul extended to his love for animals, particularly his canine companions who brought immeasurable joy to his life. In his later years, Ron found joy in the simple yet profound moments-frequent phone calls with his siblings and visits from his nephew, nieces, great-nephews and great-niece were a source of comfort and connection. His sense of humor, infectious laugh, and quiet generosity will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A Celebration of Life will be held for Ron on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at Woodlawn Cemetery at 1:00 p.m. For those wanting to attend the graveside service, please meet at the Woodlawn Cemetery Gates at 12:45 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Ron's memory can be made to the Saskatoon SPCA, honoring his lifelong love for animals.
Ron's kindness, laughter, and unwavering love will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
Saturday, May 3, 2025
1:00 - 1:30 pm (Central (no DST) time)
Woodlawn Cemetery
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