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GILLARD, Arthur James

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arthur gillard

APRIL 21, 1931 – APRIL 19, 2022

Captain Arthur J. Gillard

Art (Dad) took his last flight with a great tail wind on Tuesday April 19th 2022 at the Innisfree House Hospice Kitchener. He passed away with his wit and dignity 2 days short of his 91st Birthday. He had cancer but luckily for us and him he did not suffer. His only frustration was not being able to be productive and active as he had always been. He mainly missed driving to Hamilton to the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum to see his friends and work on projects. He had been a volunteer and pilot there for many years.

Father to Charis Hubley (Murray) Jamie Gillard (Sharon) and brother to Barry Gillard. Art had 5 lovely grandchildren Jordan Hubley (Beth) Madison Rodriques (Emilio) Chanel Chapman (Justin) Justine Gillard and Lauren Gillard.

Art was a pilot and flew as a pilot for many years before working at Air Canada for 35 years. Retiring was mandatory at 60 or he would have stayed for the rest of his life. He then worked as a flight instructor in the simulator after retirement which was the next best thing. He simultaneously flew War birds like the Folker at the Brampton Flying Club attending Air shows and fly-ins. He then went to the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum in Hamilton as a pilot of the PBY Canso which which he loved to fly. He also worked on projects like large models to hang in the hanger there. The museum and his friends there brought him so much happiness. Just weeks before he passed he managed the strength to go for a visit and he was thrilled to catch up and sit with everyone there who made a big fuss over him.

Dad was funny and clever and a talented wood worker and gardener as well as a pilot.. He lived a full life and traveled to many countries. Everyone should experience the happiness being a pilot gave to him.

There will be no service at this time and Dad wanted no fuss but and any donations made to the Canadian Heritage Museum Hamilton or the Innisfree House Kitchener would be appreciated on his behalf.

I just hope Dad is eternally flying the globe and has clear skies.

Arrangements entrusted to T. Little Funeral Home & Cremation Centre