Obituary of Ian William Gilchrist

GILCHRIST, Ian William - passed away peacefully at London Health Sciences Centre, University Hospital campus on Friday, March 4th, 2016. Ian leaves behind a loving wife and best friend of 48 years, Carol Ann Gilchrist, and much loved son and family, Craig Ian, daughter-in-law Dana and two granddaughters, Kennedy and Rylie. Ian’s life was a journey that stretched from his birthplace in Newcastle, England to London, Ontario where he worked for most of his career. Along the way, Ian was extremely involved in football creating, coaching, and organizing many of the top organizations in London and avidly supporting the Liverpool Football Club – LFC: “You’ll Never Walk Alone”. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a grandfather to two granddaughters who lovingly referred to him as “Grumpy Gramps”. He loved to vacation annually in Antigua where he would spend his days sitting by the beach and pool talking to any person who would listen to him – his humour and sarcasm will be missed. It was at Ian’s request not to hold a funeral and be cremated. Instead we plan to hold a small family and friend’s celebration of his life on Saturday, March 12th in London, Ontario. Donation in lieu of flowers would be appreciated, specifically to the London, Health Sciences Foundation at University Hospital, LONDON, Ontario – specifically, the “Multi-Organ Transplant Program” as our charity of choice. This is in appreciation for the care provided to Ian 17 years ago when he was the recipient of a liver transplant. University Hospital, at the University of Western Ontario, is one of the top transplant clinics in Canada and they supported Ian well over the past 16 years. The link to this charity can be found below and the gift direction to the “Multi-Organ Transplant Program” (MOTP) can be achieved by adding it to the blank line provided through the "OTHER" section of the drop down menu. We would also like to remind everyone that making your wishes known for your own organ donation can provide the gift of life to families such as ours. Online Donation: http://www.lhsf.ca/ways-to-give/donate-now/memorial-donation By Mail: http://www.lhsf.ca/ways-to-give/memorial-giving