Obituary of Arthur "Art" Gillan

(Lifelong Farmer) Peacefully at Almonte on Tuesday morning, November 3, 2015 in his 82nd year. Eldest son of the late Welland and Mary (nee Bourk) Gillan. Beloved husband and best friend of Maureen (nee Biggs) for over 56 years. Dearly loved father of Mason (Joan). Predeceased by 2 sons: Jim and Shane. Dear brother of Ted (Helen) and Frank (Arlene). Proud “Grandpa” of Jennifer Gardner (Matt), Ritchie Gillan (Margaret McLean), Shannon Gillan and Mitchell Gillan (Erin) and great-grandfather of 3. Fondly remembered brother-in-law of Rene Biggs (late Everett); Marjorie Clement (late George), Evelyn Matthews (Norman) and Reg Biggs (Amy). Also survived by 2 special aunts, Mary Scott and Edna Armstrong as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews. Art loved agriculture and farming with his family over the years. He was always looking for new ways to improve farming practices. Art was a proud graduate of Kemptville College, year 1954. Over the years, Art served as president of the Lanark County Junior Farmers; a 4-H leader; a director on the Ontario Soil & Crop Association; a director on the Advisory Board at Kemptville College as well as a director on the Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame. Art also loved antique tractors, curling and travelling, and was a long standing member of St. Andrew’s United Church, Pakenham. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during visitation at the Pilon Family Funeral Home and Chapel Ltd., 50 John Street North, Arnprior on Saturday, November 7th from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. and again on Sunday, November 8th from 12 noon until 1 p.m. A Funeral Service will be conducted in St. Andrew’s United Church, Pakenham on Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock. Interment Pakenham Union Cemetery. Donations in memory of Art to St. Andrew’s United Church in Pakenham; the UofO Heart Institute or the charity of your choice would be most appreciated by his family. A heartfelt “thank you” to the staff at Almonte Country Haven and the Almonte General Hospital.