Mr. Ronald Gillis 66, of Beverly, beloved husband of Kathryn (Barr) Gillis, died unexpectedly Tuesday, February 19, 2013, in Beverly. Born in Salem, he was the son of the late Lawrence Gillis and the late Eleanor (Toft) (Gillis) Steeves. He received his early education in St. Mary's Grammar School in Salem and was a graduate of Salem High School.

Ron was an honorably discharged veteran of the United States Marine Corps, serving his country during the Vietnam War. Mr. Gillis was a master carpenter by trade and was the Proprietor of his own construction company for many years. A long-time resident of Beverly, he was an outdoor enthusiast, and enjoyed boating, golfing, and spending time with his beloved grandchildren. Family was of the utmost importance and he relished the time spent with them. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother, he will be deeply missed.

In addition to his loving wife of nineteen years, he is survived by his son Eric Mitchell and his wife Amy of Amesbury, grandchildren Matthew and Meghan Mitchell, sister Sallie Ramos of Peabody, brother Larry Gillis and his wife Carol of Eliot, Maine and several nieces and nephews. He was pre-deceased by his sister Patricia Ann "Pat" Bertram. Ronnie will also be greatly missed by his "bookend companions", Molly and Mason.

Arrangements: Relatives and friends are invited to visiting hours in The O'Donnell Funeral Home, 46 Washington Sq., Salem (at Salem Common) Saturday, February 23rd, from 2:00 - 5:00 P.M. Expressions of sympathy may be made in Ronnie's name to Hospice of the North Shore & Greater Boston, 75 Sylvan St., Ste. ,B102, Danvers, 01923.