Obituary of Robert Lewis Gillings

Robert Lewis Gillings Sr., aka Santa Claus, passed away on Saturday February 10, 2018 in Eastern Niagara Hospital, Lockport. Born in Lockport on June 1, 1935, he was the son of the late Wilfred Sr. and Blanche Hollenbeck Gillings. Robert worked at Simonds Saw and Steel for over 30 years, retiring in 1983. He was a member of the Moose Club, the Navy Marine Club, the Redman Club and the Eagles Club #825. Robert enjoyed playing Euchre, gardening, farming, lending a helping hand to those in need and played Santa Claus around Christmas time. He is predeceased by his wife of 37 years, Mary Jean (nee Reynolds) Gillings, who passed away November 8, 1997. Robert is survived by his son, Robert L. (Sue) Gillings Jr.; grandfather of Jennifer (Keith) Schultz and Brian (Susan) McIntyre; great grandfather of Simon Schultz and James Essenburg. He was the brother of Jean Mayer, Dorothy Hain, Geraldine LaSage and the late Shirley Anson, Winifred Marsh, Wildred Gillings Jr. and John Gillings. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Tuesday Feb. 13th, 2-4 and 6-8 PM in Prudden and Kandt Funeral Home, 242 Genesee Street, Lockport, where services will be held Wednesday Feb. 14th at 10 AM. Interment will be in Cold Spring Cemetery. In Lieu of flowers memorial to Save-A-Pet, would be appreciated by the family. Online Condolences at pruddenandkandt.com.