Gillis, Frank, 88, March 21, 2008. Arrangements by Clay Funeral Home, Danforth.
DANFORTH – Frank Gillis, 88, died March 21, 2008. He was born January 2, 1920.
When Frank Gillis went home to be with the Lord, he was surrounded by his family and friends at home, where he wanted to be. He was a WWII Army Veteran, and joined the Company C 55th Armored Infantry Battalion. In 1942 he served as a Radar Technician. In 1943 he was a member of the Battery "C" 247th Anti Aircraft Search and Light Battalion. Frank was also in the Battle of the Bulge. He received the European African Middle Eastern Theater Campaign Ribbon, the Victory Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the Purple Heart Medal, and the Expert Rifle Combat Infantryman Badge. He spent the last days of service in Rhineland and Ardennes Germany.
Frank was born in Howland, Maine, the son of Mancel and Nellie Gillis, and they moved to Danforth when he was two years old. On October 7, 1942, he married the love of his life, Muriel Dunlap, with whom he shared the rest of his life.
Frank was predeceased by his sister, Marilyn Lavoie of Bangor and his brother, Fred Gillis of Danforth, and his faithful dog, Misty. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Muriel Gillis of Danforth. Also, his brother, Harry Gillis of Danforth; his sister-in-law Gladys Brewer of Presque Isle; several nieces and nephews; many great-nieces and nephews; and great-great-nieces and nephews. Also, a special friend, Danny Shay of Eaton, ME. I would also like to sincerely thank a devoted worker and friend, Donna Grass.
Frank spent his life operating the Gillis Lumber Company and owned and designed the Yankee Grocery Store in Danforth. Frank and Muriel loved to travel and visited many places in the US and Europe. They spent many winters in Florida and Georgia. They spent their summers at their beloved camp at East Grand Lake. Frank was also a member of the American Legion Association Post 45, and attended the Danforth Baptist Church faithfully for many years.
We want to extend a special thanks to Dr. Sussman of Houlton for all his service to Frank. Muriel would like to thank the girls who have made it possible for Frank and Muriel to stay in their home during his illness. We sincerely appreciate you.
Relatives and friends called from 6-8 p.m. Tues, March 25, at the Clay Funeral Home- Bartlett Chapel, Houlton Road, Danforth. Funeral Services will be held Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the Danforth Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the American Diabetic Association, 80 Elm Street, Portland, ME 04101. For an online register book, please visit www.clayfuneralhome.com.