Obituary of William James Gilroy

GILROY – William James “Bill” – After a courageous battle with Parkinson disease, Bill died peacefully with his family by his side at Bluewater Health, Palliative Care on Monday, January 13, 2020 at the age of 84. Beloved husband of Eileen for 63 years. Loving father of Michael Gilroy (Brenda), Sarnia, Patricia Sowinski (Ron), Sarnia, Peter Gilroy (Sharon), Pt. Edward, Andrew Gilroy (Julie), Sarnia, and John Gilroy (Natalie) Pt. Edward. Cherished grandfather of Carla, Sarah, Theresa, Jessica, Jenna, Julia, Michael, Melissa, Zachary, Nicholas, Emily, Suzanne and Christopher. Proud great grandfather of Lily and Trent Tait. Brother-in-law of Rosemary Dryden (Don), Oakville, Margaret Adamson (Lloyd), Elliot Lake, Suzanne Jaap (Hardy) Hornby, ON and Monica Carter (Neil) Sault Ste. Marie. Also survived by many nieces, nephews and his special “sister” Jackie Santoro and dear friends Gene & Bev O’Connell who took mom and dad to church and breakfast every Sunday. Predeceased by his parents Agnes & Ottis Gilroy and his brother Rodney Gilroy. Bill worked as a Lab Technician for DuPont of Canada until his retirement in 1993. He was a long standing member of the Knights of Columbus and St. Benedict Church. Bill was a volunteer with St. Vincent de Paul, helping where he could. He was a member of Ironworks gym and an avid sports fan. The family would like to express their gratitude to the Dr’s. Crombeen and Maddison and nurses of Palliative Care at Bluewater Health for their excellent care and compassion. Visitation will be held at the McKENZIE & BLUNDY FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CENTRE, 431 N. Christina St., Sarnia on Thursday, January 16, 2020 from 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Benedict Church on Friday, January 17th at 10 a.m. Interment to follow. As an expression of sympathy, friends who wish may send memorial donations to St. Vincent de Paul Society, 106 East St. S., Sarnia, N7T 7H9. Messages of condolence and memories may be left at www.mckenzieblundy.com