Invite friends and family to read the obituary and add memories.
We'll notify you when service details or new memories are added.
You're now following this obituary
We'll email you when there are updates.
Select your format and elements to print
Gregory G. "Greg"
Gillis
d. Oct 2, 2026
Monday
M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel
1:00 - 5:00 pm
Gregory G. Gillis, 86, of North Tonawanda, NY, passed away peacefully on October 2, 2026, at his residence while under the care of Hospice, with his loving family by his side. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Roland E. and Evelyn J. (Bosso) Gillis; and the beloved husband of Judith M. “Judy (Heller) Gillis, whom he married on August 7, 1965 at Sacred Heart Church.
Greg graduated from Niagara Falls High School and earned his Bachelor's degree from Tri-State College (now Trine University) in Indiana. He later obtained his Master's Degree in Civil Engineering from the University at Buffalo. A highly respected educator, Greg dedicated more than fifty years to Erie Community College as a professor of Civil Engineering. Throughout his distinguished career, he also served as department chair for several years. Deeply passionate about teaching and mentoring others, Greg found great joy in working with his students and remained actively engaged in the classroom until his retirement in 2021 at the age of 81, a testament to both his love of education and the countless lives he influenced along the way.
In addition to his educational career, Greg worked for many years as an engineer with the former Mesh Engineering in Lockport, NY. Outside of his profession, he pursued a lifelong passion for motorcycles and classic cars. Alongside his brother, Brian, Greg co-founded Power City Motorcycle in 1969 and they went on to own and operate three motorcycle shops throughout Western New York. His enthusiasm for motorsports and cars began early, drag racing at Niagara Dragway during the 1950s, and continued throughout his life. He could often be found attending car cruises and shows with his family, creating cherished memories along the way.
Despite his many professional and personal pursuits, nothing brought Greg greater happiness than time spent with his family. He loved going to "breakfast club" with his cousins, and especially treasured the moments shared with his children and grandchildren. Greg will be remembered for his kindness, generosity and willingness to help anyone in need.
Greg is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Judy Gillis; his cherished daughter, Monica (Michael Jr.) Haun; his grandchildren, Matilda Haun and Richard Hetherly; his sister-in-law, Denise (Claude) Burson; his niece, Danielle Burson; and his nephew, Claude (Nikki) Burson, and several cousins. In addition to his parents, Greg was sadly predeceased by his son, Rodney Gillis in 2025; and his brother, Brian Gillis in 2018.
Visitation will be held on Monday, October 5 from 1- 5 PM at M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14304. Interment at the convenience of the family will be held in St. Joseph Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY. Memorial offerings in Greg's memory may be made to a charity of one's choice. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
Visits: 310
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors