GILLINGS, Douglas Kendal Gillings

It is with broken hearts and profound sadness that the family of Douglas Kendal Gillings, age 83, of Gravenhurst, Ontario announces his passing on June 23, 2026. Doug was born on January 1,1943, in Haliburton to Reverend James Gillings and Norma Gillings.

He lived a life defined by his dedication to the people he cared about: his family, friends, students, and colleagues. He was loved and respected by so many people whose lives he genuinely touched.

Doug’s legacy lives on in his beautiful 50-year marriage to Anu and the unwavering love he poured into his children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, extended family, and countless friends. He was also a beloved physical education teacher and football coach in the Toronto area, whose impact has echoed beyond his immediate students and through generations.

Above all, Doug was a dreamer who pursued his visions with unwavering determination until they became reality. He built his cottage estate on Little Sunny Lake so he could sit back and witness wonderful memories being made. His greatest pride was providing a gathering place in his own private paradise, where all were welcomed with open arms.

Douglas Kendal Gillings is survived by his beloved wife, Anu Marley; his children, Tammy (Rick), Brad (Alexandra), and Susan (Mark); grandchildren, Hayley (Graham), Cole (Amy), Zachary, Sierra, Adeline, Emily, Ronni, and Alex; great-grandson, Jude; and brother, Jim (Bonnie).

He is also survived by his sister-in-law Mary (John); his nieces and nephews, Phil (Janet), Chris (Lee-Anne), Kerri, Kenneth John (Kim), and Mike (Sandra); as well as his great-nieces and nephews, Nicole, Connor, Ethan, Mallory, Bee, Chloe, and Mikey.

He was preceded in death by his siblings; Margaret, Ruth, and David; and his nephew, Jimmy.

Doug was very appreciative of his West Toronto Family, his North Toronto Family, and all the Malvernites who have always been so supportive.

Doug’s passions for bonfire building, morning dips in the lake, cross-country skiing, howling at the moon, and quiet moments on “Sunset Rock” will be cherished and replicated by his devoted family forevermore.