Gary John Pillman of Blackfalds, Alberta, passed away at the Lacombe Hospital on May 5th, 2024, at the age of 79 years.

Gary was born in Innisfail on April 13, 1945, to Sybil and Ed Craddick, who both worked at the army base in Red Deer. Gary was lovingly adopted by his stepfather Loyd Pillman in 1951. Gary was raised in several rural towns as Loyd worked for the Alberta Wheat Poole.

Gary had different jobs before he worked as a Boilermaker where he retired from. He lived in Calgary before later moving to Blackfalds in 2017. Gary is remembered for his guitar playing and sense of humour and kindness. His ability to make you laugh or join in song was his way of making the world a little better.

Gary will be lovingly remembered by his spouse, Marie Pillman; son, Brad Pillman (Lee Anne Briggs) of Red Deer; daughters, Tammy (David) of Lethbridge, Kim (Scott) Straza of Ogema Sask.; grandchildren, Vickie, Rebecca, Heather; brothers, Rodney (Maureen) Pillman of Medicine Hat, Leslie (Marlene), sister, Iris (Lenard) Bolton of Blackfalds, and Diania (Mike) Schnurr from Spokane. As well as other family and friends.

A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.     

Condolences to Gary’s family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate “Pillman” in the subject line.

Arrangements in care of

Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service

A locally owned cremation and funeral provider

serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta

587-876-4944