Westbrook – Ricky Gillis, age 65, passed away on January 30, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born in Westbrook, Maine, in May 1959, he was the son of the late Hartley and Bertha Gillis.
In 1979, Ricky married his soulmate, Cindy (Arntz) Gillis, at the local City Hall. Together, they raised two children, Allen and Amy.
Ricky dedicated 26 years of his life as a shoemaker with the Sebago Moc Shoe Company. Following its closure, he transitioned to the construction field, working with Allied Cook. When retired, he spent his time helping care for his grandchildren, a role he affectionately called “Papa Care” and “Papa Camp.”
Ricky had a passion for staying busy. He could often be found working on projects around the house—tinkering with lawnmowers, snowblowers, bicycles, or building puzzles. Always eager to lend a hand, he was a go-to for anyone in need of a part, tool, or advice. His favorite spot was the swing in his yard, where he welcomed anyone looking for a friendly conversation. He enjoyed sharing his stories of raising hell as a kid in Westbrook and how you can’t get away with that stuff now.
Ricky was a proud grandfather, affectionately known as "Papa" to Austin Stoddard, Aubrey Cotta, Mason Gillis, Joe Cotta, and Josh Cotta.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Cindy (Arntz) Gillis; his children, Allen Gillis and his wife Jami of Standish, and Amy Cotta and her husband Bob of Gorham; his brothers, Danny Gillis, Gary Gillis, Dennis Gillis, and Joe Gillis; his sisters, Melinda Gallant, Tracy Sargent, and Tammy Lunt, along with his sister-in-law, Glenda Liggetto. Ricky also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and their families, all of whom held a special place in his heart.
Ricky was predeceased by his brother John Gillis, sister-in-law Bonnie Gillis, and nephews Chance Gallant, Danny Gillis, and Shawn Liggetto.
A graveside service and celebration of life will be held in the spring, with details to be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Southern Maine, 180 US Route 1, Scarborough, ME 04074, in gratitude for their compassionate care during Ricky’s final hours.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Poitras Funeral Homes, www.mainefuneral.com