Maari Veronica Gillis (Singfield)

Maari Veronica Gillis (Singfield) passed away January 1, 2025, at the age of 30 after a hard fought battle with cancer. 

It is with insurmountable grief that we say goodbye to our strong, passionate, caring Maari: wife to Jack, daughter to Joyel and George, sister to Caitlin (Stephen) and Angel, sister-in law to Ceci (Guy) and Patrick, beloved aunt to Oaklen, Graycen and Olivia, granddaughter to George and Veronica, and the late Marie Hall, Helen Gillis and Fred Dudla, daughter-in-law to Valerie (Lou) and Paul (Becky). Maari was the bright light in any room to all of her aunts, uncles and cousins, and the most incredible example of strength and compassion to her army of friends who supported her through every part of this painful journey.

At 24, Maari faced the most devastating news - a breast cancer diagnosis - with unwavering grace. She fought ferociously, refusing to consider an end to the battle until there were no options to consider.

As the cancer spread through her body, it never weakened her beautiful soul. Determined to live her life with purpose, she completed her Masters in Psychotherapy in June 2023 and was able to practice and counsel some fortunate clients before her cancer symptoms progressed. She didn’t want her clients to be impacted by her visible signs of cancer so decided to pause her practice. Fortunately for all of us, she used her therapeutic practices to help those she loved every day. 

Jack was the love of her life; her true partner from the very beginning, and caregiver until the end. She could not have loved him more. They laughed constantly and spent their time, together with their dogs Bo and Fitz, cooking, travelling, and of course sharing their love of music. They lived each day as one, and their love inspired all who were fortunate enough to witness it. Jack completed Maari. 

Joyel, George, Angel, Caitlin, Stephen, and Oaklen could not have gotten through these last 5 years without Maari leading the way. She taught us so much, but most importantly she taught us to live in the moment, love those around you deeply, and never, ever, give up when you have something to live for. 

Her friends, so many friends, are truly what got her through her battle with cancer. Throughout her life, she impacted everyone she met. Her family will never forget the compassion and care she and Jack have received from their amazing friends and will do their best to continue to pay it forward.

Friends will be received at the Garden Chapel of Tubman Funeral Homes, 3440 Richmond Road, Nepean on Friday, January 10, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of memorial service at 12 noon. Reception to follow. 

Flowers are beautiful, but Maari would have preferred donations to help those battling this disease: 

Centre for Health Innovation

Breast Cancer Canada

Melanie's Way

or a charity of your choice that assists Cancer patients or supports music for children.