Skip to content

Wm. Keith Gilroy

April 6, 2014

Peacefully at Parkwood Hospital, London, on Sunday, April 6th, 2014, surrounded by his family, in his 78th year.  Beloved husband and best friend of Joan (née Collingwood) for 56 years.  Loving father of Bill (Kathy), Alan (Sue), and Annette (Dave) Robb.  Cherished Grandpa of Spencer (Krystal), Brigitte (Josh), Kailey (Tim), Kyra (Pat), Kurt, Lucas (Alanah) and Samantha.  Great Grandpa of Alexis and T.J.  Dear brother of Donald Gilroy and Phyllis (Ted) Campbell.  Will be sadly missed by many nieces and nephews.  After working for over 30 years with IBM, Keith enjoyed his retirement by golfing, vegetable gardening and travelling the world.  His favourite vacation destination was Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.  A celebration of Keith’s life will be held on Saturday, April 19th, 2014 at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 501, 7097 Kilbourne Road, London, Ontario, from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m.  Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Keith are asked to consider the Parkwood Hospital Palliative Care Unit.

Leave a tribute for Wm. Keith Gilroy

Leave a tribute

  • Accepted file types: jpg, png, gif, Max. file size: 2 MB.

(Donated to Parkwood Hospital Palliative Care Unit)

~ Lynn and Siegi Kaminski

Keith was one of my favorite cousins,. At Family Reunions, he was the President and Games director for a few years. He enlisted my twins, Carolyn and Christine to help him run the games and he provided the prizes. We always have lots of fun when he was there. He was always smiling and positive and we were always happy to be around him and his wife Joan. Our sincere condolences to Joan and her family, his brother ,Don and his family and his sister, Phyllis and her family on the loss of a truly wonderful man. We will always remember Keith fondly. Love, Joyce and Ralph de Jong and family

~ S Joyce and Ralph de Jong(nee Gilroy)

Joan, Michele and I would like to pass along to you and your family our sincere condolences. We both remember Keith as a very kind and gentle man who treated everyone with dignity and respect. I thoroughly enjoyed working with Keith on 2 occasions at IBM and was part of the office there when he retired. Keith was always there for the Tuesday golf, always made sure there was coffee available at the office and never lost his sense of humour and enjoyment of life. He will be missed.

~ Corry and Michele Kerstens

My sincere condolences to the Gilroy family. I enjoyed working with Keith in the 1970's when he was a Manager at IBM in London. I remember his smile and wonderful sense of humour.

~ Phyllis (Danard) Ede

Keith conducted my initial interview when I applied for a job with IBM. That was in 1978. He must have said something nice about me to IBM HR because I was subsequently offered a job. I guess you could say that Keith changed my life. I will always remember Keith fondly. He was always fair to us and he had a great sense of humor. I will miss him.

~ Bob Patrick and Susan Flaxan

Joan and Family: Wishing you strength and comfort in the the days ahead, great memories of Keith will always be with you and the family. Our sincere condolences.

~ George and Reta Anas

Joan and family we are wishing you our sincere condolences . we made some fun memories that will last forever . Our thoughts are with you all.

~ Mark Sinclair and Family

Didn't get to know Keith very well but know that he was loved deeply by his family and his life with them will be celebrated forever.

~ John Blakowski

Joan and Keith would come to stay with us, and the following morning Uncle Keith would make us his famous omelettes , he brought everything with him including his spatula and frying pan, a couple of times we sure had a house full, probably 25 to 30 people at the cottage, everyone would get one just the way they liked. We read everyones messages and they are all the same. , We have lost a truly great man and uncle !! There are so many more memories we can go on and on, but he will always be in our hearts. We love you Joan, Al and Sue, & family, Bill and Kathy & family, Annette and Dave & family xo

~ Dave and Kathy McDonald

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Auntie Joan, Bill and Kathy, Al and Sue, Annette and Dave and your families. Uncle Keith loved to travel, and during my last visit with him, he told me; "I think I'm on my last trip." And so he is....Rest In Peace...till we meet again.

~ Tracy and Steve Coates and Family

'Keith Gilroy' - there is only one Keith Gilroy, a wonderful husband, father, and friend. We will always remember him in our hearts and would like to express our condolences to Joan and family. We know he loved you all so much. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. Keith was a special person to everyone who knew him.

~ Brian & Claudette Nash

The Gilroy family has been a neighbour to the Rice`s for the past 50 years - in North Bay and then in London on Fontaine Road. Keith was frequently summoned by mother to fix something electrical that had broken and he good naturedly came when called. There were many Fontaine get togethers by the pool and I recall the twinkle in Keith`s eye as he enjoyed a beverage and told stories. I have deeply respected the obvious love and closeness that he had for Joan and his children and their children as well as the humour and patience with which he loved. Our heartfelt sympathies to the entire Gilroy Family.

~ Deb Rice and Family

Peacefully at home in London, on Monday, July 27th, 2020, surrounded by her family, in her 83rd year. Beloved Wife and best friend of Keith Gilroy (2014) for 56 years. Loving Mother of Bill (Kathy), Alan (Sue), and Annette (Dave) Robb. Cherished Grandma of Spencer (Krystal), Brigitte (Josh), Kailey (Tim), Kyra (Pat), Kurt, Lucas (Jill) and Samantha. Great Grandma of Alexis, T.J, Kaelyn, Aiden, and Landon. Survived by her sister Ruth Hodgson of Hamilton. Will be sadly missed by many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews. When Joan wasn't travelling the world or on a cruise with Keith, you could find Joan swimming in her pool, entertaining or sewing ...especially the many nightgowns she made for family, friends and acquaintances. Joan loved her 4pm "wine o'clock". Please join us in honouring Joan's memory by raising your glass and toasting her any time you find yourself at "wine o'clock"!

~ William Gilroy

(Donated to Parkwood Hospital Palliative Care Unit)

~ Harry Williamson

How fitting that picture is of Uncle Keith--in his tuxedo. Uncle Keith was, in every way, a very classy man. My heart goes out to Auntie Joan, cousins Billy, Allan and Annette and families. I know he loved you all and that he was loved back--by his family and by all who knew him. Thinking of you all, Gail (Collingwood) Tessier XO

~ Gail Tessier

(Donated to Parkwood Hospital Palliative Care Unit)

~ Darrell Kington

(Donated to Parkwood Hospital Palliative Care Unit)

~ Bill & Charly McInroy

(Donated to Parkwood Hospital Palliative Care Unit)

~ Geoff Bradley

(Donated to Parkwood Hospital Palliative Care Unit)

~ Don and Mary Donner

(Donated to Parkwood Hospital Palliative Care Unit)

~

(Donated to Parkwood Hospital Palliative Care Unit)

~ John Wilkin

(Donated to Parkwood Hospital Palliative Care Unit)

~ Corry Kerstens

(Donated to Parkwood Hospital Palliative Care Unit)

~ Connie Murphy

(Donated to Parkwood Hospital Palliative Care Unit)

~ John Blakowski Family

(Donated to Parkwood Hospital Palliative Care Unit)

~ Dan Rea and Karen Milton

(Donated to Parkwood Hospital Palliative Care Unit)

~ Brian & Claudette Nash

(Donated to Parkwood Hospital Palliative Care Unit)

~ Marg & Glen Irvine

Thirty-four years ago I was welcomed into the Gilroy's home and very soon felt that I was a part of their family. I will miss how Keith carved a turkey, how he could tell a story, how his smile and laugh were so infectious, as well as his zest for travel and his travel tips. Of course I would also have to include a fond memory of his reindeer kisses as well!(Annette will know what I mean). His presence at the head of the table on Christmas Eve will be missed as he would always raise a glass of something and wish everyone well and truly made you feel the spirit of family. My family and I are truly blessed to have known Keith. We will miss you Keith/Papa Gilroy! Our condolences to Joan and the Gilroy family. Rob, Janet and Holly Graham

~ Janet Graham

I am thinking of all of you during this sad time.

~ Sandra Legat

Our sincere condolences on the loss of your father. I enjoyed my brief time working with him in the travel industry. He will be missed by many people and we send our love to you and your families. Sincerely, Paul, Michelle, Sam & Emily

~ Michelle Callipari & Paul Amarelo

So sorry to hear of the loss of your Husband/Dad/Grandpa. He was a lovely charming man. Hugs and prayers being sent your way. Love Sue, John and Kev

~ Sue, John and Kev Strybosch

My sincere condolences, and my prayers for you Joan on the loss of your loving husband & best friend He will be sadly missed by all of us, his wife , family and many many friendsII send my love and kind thoughts to you

~ Greta MacLean

Our heart felt condolences to the Gilroy family. I have known the Gilroy family for 35 years now and always felt welcomed as one of the family. Keith helped start my career at IBM and because of him I have my wonder family and life. Thank you Keith! You will be missed.

~ Scott Adams and Linda Adams

A fellow IBMer and good friend. Keith will be missed at the monthly OFG luncheons. He had a way of making one smile. Our thoughts are with Joan and family. Darrell and Nancie

~ Darrell Kington and Nancie Irving

Keith was my first manager at IBM . New to IBM ,Keith made me feel like one of the family . Later Sandi and I where happy to meet up with Keith for planning a trip ,at the travel agency . He was always there to help .Thanks Keith . You will be missed , Rob and Sandi.

~ Rob and Sandi Brintnell

Our sincere condolences to Joan and the Gilroy family. Keith was a great manager, wonderful friend, pretty good golfer and a happy man who always enjoyed a good time. Betty and I travelled with Keith and Joan on some wonderful trips arranged by him and very much enjoyed being with them. His jokes and smiling face will be sadly missed but recalled with fond memories.

~ Betty and Ron Eichenberger

Our sincere condolences to the Gilroy family on the loss of their loved one. I had the pleasure of knowing Keith throughout my IBM career and have fond golfing memoirs from our Twin Streams Tuesday night IBM golf outings and 19th hole card games and socializing. Always a pleasure to be around Keith, he will be sadly missed but fondly remembered.

~ Brian and Marlene Mossey

Dear Joan and family, We are so sorry to hear of Keith's passing. Bruce has many good memories of working together with Keith at IBM. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.

~ Bruce and Margaret Switzer

I ( Cliff ) remember the first meeting with Keith & Joan in their house outside Hamilton. It was October 1961 and he and I where on our way for our first day with IBM in Kingston New York. Lots of fine memories. Joan & Family, our thoughts and prayers are with you all. God Bless.

~ Audrey & Cliff White

So I'm sitting in my office in downtown Dallas, when I get a call from Gina telling me a crazy couple came knocking at the house door, should she let them in? But of course......who else could it be. So I raced home with wine in hand to spend time with these weary travelers.....and who was it, but none other than the Gilroy's. Keith was the kind of guy you'd drop everything to spend time with. Always a smile on his face and a great story to be told. Whether it was at Dave and Annette's, down in Texas, or at the Pearl, people always gravitated to him. He was warm and personable, and we'll all be left with great memories of truly a great soul. He'll be remembered by many, and missed by a lot. We won't be able to make the celebration on the 19th, but in true fashion, we'll raise a glass and make a toast that day. Warm blessings and prayers to friends and family.

~ The Schooley's

Keith was a great man and my office "boyfriend" - I will miss him terribly. My sincere sympathies to Joan and the entire family.

~ Katherine HIrtzel

A fellow IBMer, a great friend with a heart of gold. A true family man who was blessed with a strong and loving family.

~ Harry and Josey Williamson

We miss our great friend and neighbour, handyman extraordinaire, fantastic cook of salmon. We still have Joan

~ Sandy and Brian Hynds

Condolenses to Aunty Joan and family. Rest in peace Uncle Keith. You will be missed by all.

~ Debbie Sherring

Our sincere condolences to Joan and family. I had the pleasure of calling Keith my golfing buddy along with Jack and Ken for three years until I moved to Ottawa. The golf never improved but we always had a great time. Keith was a good listner and I loved hearing his wonderful stories. I will miss him dearly. Claude & Susan Laneville

~ Claude Laneville

keith was a great friend for nearly 39years. we enjoyed many vacations to-gether , a lot of fun parties including the annual pig roast.super golfing buddy.keith was a great guy and a true friend and we will miss him greatly condolenses to joan & family jack & donna

~ jack & donna forbes

Sincere condolences to Joan and family. Keith was a very nice person - always smiling. He will be missed.

~ Barb Hricina

My condolences to Joan and family. He will be missed by so many as he was a special person loved by so many.

~ Helen McCallum

Annette and Dave. Sorry to hear of your Father's passing. I just lost my Mother and understand what you are going through. I'll keep you and your family in my prayers. Good memories from our "Toys R Us" days. Julie

~ Julie Smith

I worked with Keith at IBM in North Bay (SAGE SITE) in 1961. Later he became my manager here in London On at IBM I enjoyed working with him and for himl A great guy! We all enjoyed the golfing and the parties. Sorry Joan . Judy and I send our condolences to you and the family.

~ Earl Adam

My dear sweet Uncle. I thank him for his kindness, his humour and the twinkle in his eye. I thank him for helping me to find my worth as a confused teen. I thank him for hanging my childish painting and teasing me about my first real boyfriend. As he has lived in my heart, so he will continue.

~ Cynthia Kelly (Swayze)

Keith was a great neighbour and helpful friend. We appreciated the special care he took when helping us plan for our cruises. See you when we get home Joan.

~ Jo Anne and Paul Bugler

My thoughts and prayers are with you Joan at this sad time.

~ Anne Harrison

Hi im Bruce Gilroy The son Donald Gilroy. Keith was my uncle i never go to know. Im sorry to here of his passing. my condolences to his family. Bruce Gailxbonnie Gilroy

~ Bruce Gilroy

Make a donation

If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.

Parkwood Hospital Palliative Care Unit

Notify family of your donation

Kindly submit the form below if you wish to notify the family of your donation.