In loving memory, we announce the passing of Daniel James Gillespie (July 3, 1975 – June 13, 2024) who was able to make those around him feel truly seen, heard, and valued.
Dan is survived by his wife, Rachel, and his daughter, Claire; mother, Barbara Gillespie; brother, Adam Gillespie and sister-in-law Gillian Steeve and their children, James and Leah; half-brothers David and Thom Pardoe; in-laws, John and Barbara Deans; brother- and sister-in-law, Iain and Jennifer Deans and their children, Jade and Adam. Dan is also remembered by extended family members and many longtime friends who will forever cherish his memory.
Dan was predeceased by his father, Gary “Gus” Gillespie, who passed away on June 22, 2023.
Born and raised in Toronto, Ontario, Dan later settled with his wife and daughter in Fredericton, New Brunswick. He will be most fondly remembered by those who knew him as an active listener, nurturing caregiver, dedicated employee, adept homemaker, guitar enthusiast, and ardent sailor.
Dan’s strong work ethic, attention to detail, and articulate nature left an indelible mark on everyone who met him including former colleagues at the University of Toronto, Sudbury District School Board, Gardiner Royal LePage, Liberty Tax, and the Ministry of Health at the Government of New Brunswick, among others.
As he embraced his final journey, he did so with grace, strength, and an unwavering love for those he held dear. His absence will be deeply felt.
A memorial gathering will be held on Monday, June 24, 2024 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm AST (10:00 am to 12:00pm EST) in the Greenbrier Room at Kingswood Lodge, Hanwell, New Brunswick. For those wishing to attend but may not be able to do so in person, a sharing of stories and memories will be livestreamed HERE, beginning at 11:30am AST (10:30 EST).
Because Claire’s education was so important to Daniel, his wishes were that any memorial donations be made to her education fund, either electronically through the designated GoFundMe account in Dan’s name, or a cheque in Claire’s name with a memo “Claire’s education fund”.
Christine Bateman says
So sorry for your loss, he was one of the nicest people we ever met. Love to you and the rest of your family,
The Batemans
Barb mckinley says
Rachel so sad to read this. It sounds like he was an amazing person. Condolences to you and Claire
Roni Sue Clement says
I am so truly sorry for your loss Rachel. I wish you and your family strength during this difficult time. xo
Marilyn Luscombe says
Dear Rachel, Claire and Family, Karl and I send our deepest condolences and warmest wishes as you deal with the loss of your Dan. We are sure there are many happy and wonderful memories that will bring you strength and keep Dan near. Marilyn ♥️♥️
Andrea Kirkham says
I’m so sorry to hear about Dan’s passing. I’m thinking of your family during this difficult time.
Liz Spooner-Young says
My deepest condolences Rachel and Claire. Dan was an amazing human being who loved his family and his family and friends. Thinking of you at this time and sending love and hugs. ❤️
Kevin Farrell says
I am so heartbroken to know of this loss for all of us … I am thinking of all of you, particularly Rachel and Claire. Dan was such a warm, kind, gentle and caring person — I can see his smile and her his laugh through his words as I type. My deepest condolences.
Suzanne Desrosiers says
Rachel and Claire – My thoughts are with you during this incredibly difficult time.
Suzanne Desrosiers
John D Strong says
I remember beach volleyball with ya Dan. I remember tons of rugby and even our OAC PE class together. I remember bedroom hangs where you’d just play your guitar and we wouldn’t really even talk much. I remember homebrewed beers with your father at the kitchen table and that one time he took us up in his plane. I remember the BBC, workin, squash, hangin. I can remember your wedding and what an incredible woman you introduced us all to and what a fun night that was! I remember you Danny. And I always will.
Cindy Sheppard says
Rachel, I am just hearing of Dan’s passing. I am so very sorry for your loss. Know that I am thinking of you and Claire at this difficult time.
Bonnie Chase says
I am honoured to have had the privilege of working with Dan. He was an inspiration to us all, and the memory of his smile, kind words, and the love he had for his family will always be treasured among those who knew him. He will forever be a part of our Medicare family. Thinking of you all at this difficult time. Take care.
Alicia Jarvis says
So sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences, Rachel.
Zeljko Bolesnikov says
I am extremely saddened to hear of Dan’s passing. He was a delightful and very knowledgeable co-worker. I know I speak on behalf of all Medicare staff in saying that his smile and charming character will be missed by all of us. Rest in peace, Dan.
Rose Munn, colleague says
My sincerest condolences to the family. Dan was truly a beautiful human being, always kind natured and positive. My thoughts and prayers are with you, his family and friends.
Vince Aldashi says
Rachel, my deepest condolence to you and your family. My thoughts are with you and your family during this incredibly difficult time. Sending you much love and strength.
Jean Keith says
Rachel, there are no words to describe your incredible loss. Sending deepest condolences and strength to you and your family. Hugs.
Jean
James Boesch says
Rachel, you have my deepest condolences. I hope all the love and support coming to you and Claire from all your family and friends during this time of mourning will grow into a tremendous source of strength and healing. You’re in my thoughts.
James Boesch
Amy Johnson says
My deepest condolences to you and your Family, Rachel. May his legacy continue on in the stories and memories you speak of him.
Cheryl Anderson and family says
My deepest condolences to Rachel, Claire, the Deans and Gillespies, as well as Dan’s many many friends. He was such a kind and loving person. Love to all.
Stephanie McLaughlin says
Rachel & Claire,
I am so sorry for your loss. Dan was a great colleague – He was so very well spoken and had so much knowledge in so many areas. We had many laughs and he was so fun to torment. He was also very proud of you & Claire and spoke of you often. I hope knowing the impact that Dan has made on so many will help you both to navigate the next few difficult chapters of life.
Stephanie
Nancy Butler says
Rachel,
I am sending my deepest condolences to you, Claire and family. Thinking of all of you in this difficult time.
Nancy
Dev Mohabir says
Danny always stood out to me as a good man and a caring human being. To say he will be missed is an understatement.
I’m so sorry for your loss.
Dev (Dave) Mohabir