GILLIS, Daniel Alexander “Alex”

What a wonderful life! While we are profoundly saddened to say goodbye to our deeply loved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, our sorrow is tempered by the joy of having shared our life with Daniel Alexander “Alex” Gillis who passed away on March 27, 2024, at his home in Dartmouth. Born in 1928 to Tanner and Hilda (Chisholm) Gillis, Alex grew up in Port Hawkesbury, Cape Breton. He earned his undergraduate degree from St. Francis Xavier University and received his medical degree from Dalhousie University. After several post-graduate medical residencies, both in Canada and the United States, he came home to Halifax and spent the bulk of his illustrious career as Chief of Surgery at the Izaak Walton Killam Children’s Hospital. In 1997, he was awarded the Order of Canada for the introduction and development of techniques of open-heart surgery in children which earned him international acclaim. And while his professional accolades were numerous, Alex’s greatest joys were his family and his golf game. We’re not sure which got top billing. He was predeceased by his beloved first wife, Rosie (Langley) and son, Mark. He is survived by his wife, his rock and his best friend, Judy (Sutherland); his children, Jane (David), Sandy (Pat), Colin (Jane) and Lorna (Ken) his grandchildren, Spencer (Sonia), Robyn (Matthew) and Erica (Jason), and his great-grandchildren, Bennett, Ellis, Gwen, Abby and Thomas. When Alex married Judy, he happily became a second father to her children, Frank (Liz), Mark (Julie) and Nick (Lyndsay) and grandfather to Elizabeth, Madison, Mackenzie, Rowan, Damien, and Elsie. As per his wishes, there will be no funeral service. We think it likely he didn’t want to stick around long enough to witness such an event as his version of heaven consists of hot summer days, first-class golf courses and the perfect putter. He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered. Judy and Alex’s family also wish to extend their heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Frank Macdonald who went above and beyond in providing Alex with kind and compassionate care. Online condolences can be made at: www.donaldkwalker.ca