2026 August 4th, Dave Gillis
Loving husband of Bette Gillis (née MacKenzie); devoted father of Laura (Brian) Seifert and Michael (Lauren) Gillis; cherished grandfather of Emma, John, Molly, Aiden, Claire, Gwendolyn, and Alasdair; beloved brother of Barb (Allen) Callstrom, the late Bea Conner, the late Jack (the late Joan) Gillis, the late Jerome "Dutch" (the late Judy) Gillis, the late Mary (the late Jerry) Smuda, and the late Terry (the late Rudy) Dorweiler.
Born in Faribault, Minnesota, he was the middle of seven children in a loving family that instilled in him a deep sense of pride in his roots, a strong work ethic, and an ambition that guided him throughout his life.
He attended South Dakota State University, where he earned his degree in pharmacy in 1961. Soon afterward, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Army as a captain while stationed in Korea. He began his professional career as a pharmacist with Osco and remained with the company for 38 years. Throughout his career, he served in many roles, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication, ultimately retiring as Vice President of Operations for Jewel-Osco in 1999.
Retirement began a new chapter of service and involvement. He devoted his time to the Barrington Historical Society, the South Barrington Zoning Commission, and the Glen landscape committee. His retirement found him doing some magnificent travel, and above all else cherishing the time he spent with his children, grandchildren, and countless nieces and nephews. Family was the center of his life always. He took great joy in celebrating their accomplishments, sharing their milestones, and creating lasting memories together.
He will be remembered for his unwavering loyalty, quick wit, wonderful sense of humor, love of music, endless curiosity, and genuine interest in meeting new people and learning new things. He approached every day with enthusiasm and gratitude, embracing every opportunity and experience that came his way.
He loved life and truly lived it to the fullest. His legacy of kindness, integrity, laughter, and love will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 6, 2026 from 4:00 to 9:00 P.M. at Morizzo Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2550 West Hassell Road, (Northeast corner at Barrington Road), Hoffman Estates, Illinois 60169; and Friday, August 7, 2026 from 9:00 A.M. until time of prayers 9:45 A.M. proceeding to Church of the Holy Spirit/St. Gregory of Nyssa Parish, 1451 Bode Rd, Schaumburg, IL 60194 for a 10:30 A.M. Mass of Christian burial. Interment to follow at St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery in Palatine.
The family has created this Life Tributes page to make it easy to share your memories, photos, and videos. For those of you that would have attended services and would like to express your condolences please click on the "Share A Memory" link above and you can leave a message. If you wish to send a Sympathy Card, please feel free to send it to Morizzo Funeral Home, 2550 Hassell Road, Hoffman Estates, Illinois, 60169 c/o the Family; we will gladly forward it on to the family.
For further information please contact the Morizzo Funeral Directors at 847.752.6444.
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Cemetery Details
St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Cemetery in Palatine
1185 West Algonquin Road
Palatine, IL 60067
(847) 397-3284
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He was a great leader and friend to so many of our Jewel-Osco associates. Dave Maher
Dave was a great person to know and work with. Loved his humor, can-do spirit and making everyone part of his team. A true gentleman and honorable leader. Tom Walter
It is with great sadness that I pass on this information about the passing of our very good friend Dave Gillis. He was such a pleasure know and associate with in many capacities. He is one of many who made our careers such a wonderful experience of growth and developement. We will miss being able to reach out and see and talk to this fine man.
Gerry Bay
I am grateful for the many bosses who supported me along the way. Dave was the boss I worked with and supported as the HR Manager for Chicagoland Osco. He was also there when I was promoted to district manager, and he supported my move to Jewel Food Stores before the two companies became one.
Dave, I enjoyed the time we worked together! RIH
Darnell Allen
Dave was one of a kind. Our “Chief Culture Officer”. i have read that leadership is not taught. Leadership is gained by observation of great leaders. We were all so fortunate to observe one of the best.
We were a better company because of his steady leadership.and positive spirit . Can’t remember Dave ever having a bad day.
Rest in Peace my friend
Kevin Tripp