It is with great sadness that the family of Gilbert Vincent Willet announces his unexpected passing on Tuesday, April 2nd, 2024, at the age of 71 years.
Gil was born and raised in Sault Ste. Marie, ON where he raised his own family. He was a master craftsman – a welder and a boilermaker who worked at Algoma Steel Inc. for 35 years and at Beta and Avery Construction.
Gil and Peggy enjoyed travelling and cruising in their convertible with their friends Linda and Merle. They also enjoyed hosting events and people at their home. Gil and Peggy enjoyed helping people and contributing to the community – Military Support Group and Red Friday Golf Tournament, Operation Christmas Child, and many more. He was generous with his time and resources. Gil was a loving, supportive, dependable, kind father to his children. He took his duties as a grandfather to the next level. He supported all his grandchildren in all their activities and sporting events – he was their #1 fan.
Gil loved to win – he was a passionate sports fan/athlete who enjoyed many sports – he was in it to win it! He enjoyed golfing with Jim, Ernie, and Mark; Monday night pool with the crew; curling with Jamie, Robert, Donny, and Merle at Tarentorus Sports Club.
One of his superpowers was bringing joy by making people laugh.
Gil will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 45 years, Peggy and his children, Jasmine (Fernand) Melanson, Julie, Matthew (Rebecca), Nicolas (Mariah) and honourary daughter, Kristy McAllister. Gil will also be lovingly remembered by his ten grandchildren, Brianna (Mitchell) McPhee, Aja Melanson, Bailey Melanson, Theirry Willet-Dunster, Chase Willet-Dunster, Brock Willet, Asher Melanson, Caleb Willet, Liam Stafford, and Troy Willet, and by his many sisters and brothers, Linda MacDonald, Lorna (Rick) Dawson, Brenda McLeod, Gordie (Linda), Shelley, Bonnie (Jim), and Joanne (Roger) Miller, sisters-in-law, Shebba and Jody, nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, and cousins. Gil was predeceased by his father, George Willet Sr., his mother, Kay Willet, his brothers Danny, George, Billy Willet, and brother-in-law, Lynn MacDonald.
A celebration of life will be held in Gil’s honour at New Life Church (the Portuguese Hall) 5 Cornwall Street, Sault Ste. Marie, ON on Saturday, April 20th, 2024, from 11am to 6pm. Please come join the family and share a treasured memory of Gilbert.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
