4/24/2008

Don Gillis 1922-2008

Don Gillis, former sports director for the WHDH (when it was Boston's CBS affiliate until 1972)/WCVB (an ABC affiliate since then) and host of Candlepin Bowling on Saturdays, passed away at the age of 85.

Candelpin Bowling was a staple at my grandparent's house, as every Saturday afternoon my grandmother would be serving my grandfather lunch, and he'd dip his sandwich into his tea. My uncle also bowled on Candlepin Bowling back in the eighties, against Hugh Ferguson, and I can also remember as clear as yesterday Tom Olzsta rolling four consecutive strikes.

No word yet if the pallbearers will be in a half-Worcester formation, but Don would certainly laugh at it if he did.

UPDATE: Joe Fitzgerald from the Boston Herald details Gillis' service in the Navy, and was there the day the Japanese surrendered and ended World War II.
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1 comment:

Suldog said...

"The Hi-Lo Jackpot is up to $425..."

Candlepin Bowling was a Saturday regular at my house. My Dad and I watched religiously. I remember Tony Karem winning for 18 consecutive weeks, which was (and - since it's no longer airing - is) the record.

Don Gillis was always a comforting presence, and a gentleman. Would that there were more like him today.

4/25/2008

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