Dr. Robert W. Gillies

Robert Gillies, M.D., age 86, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Tuesday, September 17, 2019. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jeannette and William Gillies of Muskegon and his sister Lois DeMar. Robert is survived by his wife of 42 years, Charlene, children Laura (Marc) Foerster, Robert (Theresa) Gillies, Jr., Michael (Kathleen) Mahacek, Mark (Diane) Mahacek, Matthew Mahacek, and grandchildren McKenna, Michael, Mac, Madison, Marissa, Mason, Miles, Maguire, Brittney and Courtney.  Bob attended Muskegon High School and was a lifetime “Big Reds” fan.  He earned his bachelor’s degree at Calvin College.  He continued his education at the University of Michigan Medical School where he also completed his internship and residency.  He then continued his education in radiation-oncology at the University of Iowa in 1968.  He founded Hospice of Greater Grand Rapids and was the founding Medical Director of this organization.  Dr. Robert Gillies is also responsible for developing the Lakeshore Radiation Oncology Center in Holland, providing a true Cancer Center in the community.  He was a Fellow of the American College of Radiology.  In April of 2001, Robert Gillies, M.D. was honored by Spectrum Health as a Distinguished Physician Society Member. Bob had a variety of outside interests but was particularly known for his thirst for knowledge.  He had specific interests in The Civil War, the Old West and American History.  He could often cite different battles, their purpose and specific officers involved. Bob was incredibly charitable with his time and money.  He was heavily involved with the Grand Rapids Museum as he donated many items to the Civil War Exhibit, was the Physician responsible for the mummy x-ray display, and after retirement, he was the volunteer running the printing press one or two days a week. Bob loved the outdoors and most of his free time was spent hiking and camping.  He was a hunting and fishing enthusiast.  He enjoyed sailing and kayaking on Lake Michigan where he spent his summers at his cottage.  He always had time to teach these skills to his children and grandchildren, many of whom share his enthusiasm in these areas. Bob always made it clear to family and friends that they were important to him.  He was generous with his time as he spent many a day and night at his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events, band/choir concerts, plays and dance recitals.  He made it clear that he gained joy in watching them participate and succeed.  Most of all, Bob’s greatest joy was the bond he shared with his wife, Charlene.  The two could always be seen walking the beaches of Lake Michigan together, traveling in their RV with their Labrador Retrievers, visiting valued friends or simply spending quiet time together.  They were best friends and loved each other dearly.   We will miss Bob’s humility, intelligence and joyful presence.  His caring nature, constant smile and willingness to always give of himself made all of our lives better.  A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at a later date.  Donations can be made in Robert’s name to Smile Train at my.smiletrain.org

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