Kevin "Bobby" Robert Gillette

It is with tremendous grief that we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Kevin Robert “Bobby” Gillette on Saturday, October 12, 2019. He was born on July 24, 1957 in Hoyt, NB to the late Lorne Horace and Irean (Gerow) Gillette and was the loving husband of over 35 years to his wife, Mary Ann (McKinnon) Gillette.

Bobby worked for the City of Saint John for more than 30 years in many different capacities, most recently with the Water and Sewage department in plant maintenance, happily retiring from there 2 years ago. Bobby was not a quiet man but never needed to be the center of attention either. He would always make sure those around him were having a good time. He was fun and funny and was always in a good mood. He loved to laugh and joke and could give sarcastic jabs as quick as he would take them. Bobby loved karaoke and it was something that so many of us have the most wonderful memories of either by being entertained by him or singing with him. Lately he had no fear of trying new songs and it was there, surrounded by Maryann and their friends that Bobby would be happiest and truly shine.

He was also a die-hard Montreal Canadiens fan and gathered a huge collection of memorabilia, so much that it became impossible to display it all. Several years ago Bobby was able to go on what his family now calls a life changing trip to Montreal with his friends to see his beloved Habs play 2 games and win both by shutouts. This was a huge highlight for him and one he referred to often. Bobby was also a master of the grill and was always happy to be asked to cook although sometimes he would pretend he wasn’t. It didn’t matter if it was 5 or 25 people eating, the man could grill. He loved to wear his Hawaiian shirts and shorts with sandals and really didn’t care what people thought, as long as he and his family were happy, Bobby was happy. He loved to hang out with the boys and be part of the gang. He loved golfing and always looked forward to his Father’s Day weekend getaway to PEI. He was a determined golfer and never let the numerous times he’d yell “Fore” stop him from swinging again. These trips as well were very happy memories for Bob. In his younger days, Bobby was an outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing and he was fortunate to have been able to share those experiences with his children. He liked to cook in the kitchen as well and he was learning in recent years how to actually use spices properly to make a great meal. He would always have a meal ready for Maryann for when she got home from work.

He liked the simple things in life and during his retirement wood was something he was very fond of working with and always had a pallet project on the go. Bobby was a great guy and a great friend, but above all he was a devoted family man. He was a wonderful father and a very involved Papa. His grandsons were the light of his life and he loved spending time with them. He also adored his little buddy Guy (you know where that name came from) and would spend hours throwing his ball for him in the backyard even if he was tired or hung over. Our hearts are broken that this amazing husband, father and grandfather, devoted brother, and great friend has been taken from us so soon. He will never be forgotten and we will laugh about his antics and things he said and did, forever.

Along with his wife Mary Ann, he is survived by his children; Sabrina (Greg) Stewart, Tanya (Justin) Porter and Kevin Gillette; his adored grandchildren, Seth and Griffin; fur grandchildren, Jake, Axell, Lexi and his baby Guy; siblings, Cindy (Emsley), Chuck (Grace), Lorna, Myrtle, Beryl (John) and Terry (Louise), along with several nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and many friends. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother Theodore “Teddy” Gillette.

Arrangements are entrusted to Fundy Funeral Home, 230 Westmorland Road (646-2424) where visitation will be held on Wednesday from 2-4 & 6-8pm. A Celebration of Life will take place on Thursday, October 17, 2019 at 10am at the Fundy Funeral Home Chapel with interment to follow in Blissville Cemetery. For those who wish, memorial donations to Pro Kids would be appreciated by Bobby’s family.

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