William E. Gillis

William E. Gillis

Department
Alberton Fire Department
Station
1
Location
Alberton, PEI
Employment
Volunteer
Date of Death
Date of Birth
Age at Death
77
Memorial Panel
6

Story

William “Bill” Gillis was a devoted husband, proud father, loving Grampy, and dedicated firefighter. He served as Deputy Chief, Chief, and as Engineer for the Rescue Van. Down at the Fire Hall, he willingly volunteered to do anything he could that needed to be done.

Bill had a soft spot for children and dogs. When giving fire safety talks, he liked to reassure the youngest children that the Fire Truck did indeed carry oxygen masks for pets. Bill especially liked giving his grandkids tours of the Fire Hall.

Bill had a true vocation for helping people when they were going through their roughest times. He spent 45 years attending fires, accident scenes and medical calls. On September 15, 2024, Bill died at the Fire Hall while answering the department's fifth call in less than 48 hours. Bill got to do what he loved right up till the very end. Bill's family is very grateful to his fellow firefighters for honouring his wish that his last ride in the Rescue Van would be to his funeral and the cemetery.