Obituary

Diane Gillis

24 Feb 1939 – 06 Aug 2023

Diane (Robertson) Gillis passed away peacefully on August 6^th, 2023. She was born on February 24, 1939 in Scobey Montana as the youngest child of Hilda (Trix) Robertson. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 62 years, Arno (Gil) Gillis, her sisters Joanne Marlenee and Barbee Shipstead, and brother Merton Robertson.

While working as a waitress in a little café in Scobey, she was swept off her feet by a handsome stranger (Gil) passing through town who was in turn smitten by the auburn beauty across the counter who made his milkshakes with extra ice cream and chocolate syrup. They married in 1959 and moved to the big city of Billings MT and settled into family life. Together they raised daughters Patricia (Tisa) and Suzy, and sons Jon and Kent. While in Billings, Diane was involved with church, girl scouts, and service organizations. Her home was a welcome haven for family and friends.

Gil’s career moves brought them to Southern California where they resided for over 40 years. Diane was a voracious reader, which impelled her to get a job at Barnes & Noble for several years to support her habit (employee discounts are great motivators).  She was known for her sharp wit and sense of humor. We quickly learned not to mention the number of shoes in the closet or stand in front of the TV during Jeopardy. Diane and Gil enjoyed traveling on long car trips to see family and cruises with dear friends.

Diane’s greatest joy was her family, and she was immensely proud of her four children and her grandchildren, Andrew, Ruth, Kyle, and Paul. We take comfort in knowing that she and Gil are together again.