Reverend Michael Preston Gillian, of Brantford, Ontario;
otherwise known by family and friends as the ‘Trainman,’ died
suddenly of a heart attack at the age of 68 on Thursday,
September 24, 2015, in Thamesford, Ontario.
He leaves behind his beloved wife of 46 years, Elsie Marie
Devay, his daughter Vanessa (Lenny), his son Mark (Jenny) and
two beautiful grandchildren who were the joy of his heart -
Wolfe, and Teagan. Also survived by his siblings, Julie,
Maureen and Pete and predeceased by his parents Jean and
Ernie Gillian.
Michael graduated from Roberts Wesleyan College in 1971
with a B.A. in Religion.
He ministered in the Free Methodist Church of Canada for
many years in Ontario; including parishes in Cambridge,
Tillsonburg, Sault Ste. Marie, Newmarket and Picton.
In later years, he worked as part of the Blue Bird Coach
community in Brantford, and for the City of Brantford.
His “Pastor’s Heart” made him a friend; whether he was
leading worship with his beloved guitar, “Mr. Twelve String,” at
his Thursday night group, or a campfire at Maple Grove
Christian Retreat Center, where he and his family spent many
happy seasons. His caring heart always meant he had time for
others.
Even his ten-year engagement as the town Santa Claus at
Brantford Mall, was an expression of his love for people,
children and family. He also looked really good in his custom-
made suit, hand crafted by his sister.
Mike delighted in making music with his daughter Vanessa and
he was always enthused about working on the family cabin or
taking a sail with his son Mark. He was gifted at story telling,
many of which came from his travels and escapades with
friends and family. He spent many happy hours model
railroading, reading historical fiction, doing culinary research
and swimming.
Mike was deeply loved and will be deeply missed by all.
Mike quoted these words of the Psalmist recently: “The lines
have fallen to me in pleasant places.” Psalm 16:6.
The family welcomes you to a time of visitation on Thursday,
October 1, 2015, from 7pm to 9pm at the DENNIS TOLL FUNERAL HOME,
55 Charing Cross Street, Brantford. Everyone is encouraged to bring a
favourite photo of Michael to the visitation to be posted on a
memory board. Michael’s Home-Going service will be held on
the following day, Friday, October 2, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. in the funeral home chapel.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Michael can be made to the Maple Grove
Christian Retreat Center.