Obituary of Harold John Gilpin

On May 12, 2025, the heavens gained a gentle giant.   Harold (Hal)  John Gilpin passed suddenly on May 12, 2024 at his home.   Born, January 20, 1950, in Kirkland Lake Ontario, he was predeceased by his mother and father, Anna & Harold Gilpin (Englehart Ontario), late wife, Norma Gilpin (London) his sister Barbara Daniels (Ottawa),  and Jean Dowling, Liverpool UK .  Survived by his son Justin Gilpin, and his wife  Jackie Drouin (London) , and his four precious grand kids,  Jacob, Joshua, Jenny & Jaxon.  Survived by step children David Snider (London) Sherry Adams (BC)  & Troy Adams (BC)          Also survived by sisters Sally Kemshall (North Bay) and Terri (Tebby) Gilpin (Ottawa)   Nieces/nephews:   Erica Lafleur, Ottawa, Julia Hunter (Dan) Gatineau , Shawn Daniels (Bridget) Ottawa ,  Jennifer Duffield  (Toronto)  &  Andrea Duffield (Toronto)  Cherie Duffield (Joey) Kirkland Lake,  Joel Thomas (Samantha), Yellowknife NWT,  Craig Thomas (Marissa), Edmonton AB,  Robin Thomas-Acheson (Ryan) Ottawa,  plus  numerous cousins from coast to coast.      Jackie’s large loving family  warmly embraced Hal and his friendship.  

 

Hal grew up in rural north Ontario, helping out with his parents active Texaco gas station/restaurant. Attended high school in Englehart and Kirkland Lake Ont.    Did a ‘tour of duty’ in the Royal  Navy at a young age.   He  worked many jobs over the years from construction to trucking and heavy equipment operator and also  attended Fanshawe College in which he obtained certification  in Radio Broadcasting;   though had retired some years back.   His life revolved around his grandkids and helping out whenever asked.      Hal made so many friends along the road of life always offering help or simply a ‘listening ear’     He was incredibly funny with a crazy sense of humour, mixed in with his wisdom.  

 

Per Hals wishes, he was cremated and his ashes interred  in northern Ontario.   He will be terribly missed by all who knew him.   Rest well brother bear.  You were/are so loved.   We’ll all be with you in a blink. 

 

Donations to Heart and Stroke in Hal’s name would be lovingly appreciated.