Obituaries

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that the family of the late Gilbert Clarence Riles announces his peaceful passing on March 13th, 2026 with his loving family by his side, at the age of 83.

Born in West Point, Newfoundland Gilbert was the son of the late Edward and Emily (Upwards) Riles.

Dad’s sense of responsibility began early. When he was just 11 years old, he started fishing to help support his family. While most kids his age were still learning about the world, Dad already understood what it meant to step up and do what needed to be done. That work ethic and quiet determination stayed with him for the rest of his life. He never complained — he simply did what was necessary for the people he loved. Dad was shaped by hard work, deep love and the sea.

And above all else, Dad loved his family. The love of his life was our mom, Amy, and losing her was devastating. But Dad would always say that while losing Mom broke his heart, losing his granddaughter Tracey was the hardest loss he ever carried. Tracey was truly the light of his life. Her sudden passing was a heavy burden; one he bore quietly and bravely. Today, we find comfort in knowing that Dad is now reunited with both mom and Tracey — surrounded by the love he missed so deeply.

Dad shared an incredibly special bond with his great‑grandson Raymond. From the day Raymond was born, the two of them became best buddies. Raymond could do no wrong in Dad’s eyes — absolutely none. The love they shared is impossible to put into words. It was pure, joyful, and unconditional. Watching them together was something truly special, and it’s a bond that will always live on in our hearts.

Dad was also very proud of his granddaughter Jillian and his great‑granddaughter Eden. While they didn’t get to spend as much time together as he would have liked, his love for them never wavered. His face would light up the moment he heard their voices, and anytime their names were mentioned, you could see the pride and joy written all over him.

Dad was an amazing carpenter, gifted with his hands and proud of the work he did. He also worked with the Coast Guard for a period, where he made great friends and shared experiences that meant a lot to him. Over the years, Dad did many things — he even drove an ambulance at one point — always ready to help, always willing to step in where he was needed.

His work and travels took him far. He worked in Yellowknife, and his fishing life stretched from British Columbia all the way to Panama, fishing tuna and living the life that suited him best — honest, hardworking, and tied to the water.

The sea was where Dad was happiest. He loved being on the ocean, surrounded by family and friends. When he wasn’t at sea, he found joy at the cottage, another place where he felt most at peace. Many days — and nights — were spent out in the shed with friends. We jokingly called them his “meetings.” Those moments were full of laughter, stories, and quiet companionship — exactly the way Dad liked things.

Dad spent his winters in Nova Scotia with Kim, and his summers at home at the cabin, until the time came when he had to move to Nova Scotia full‑time. No matter where he was, what mattered most to him was being close to family.

Dad didn’t need attention or praise. He had a quiet strength about him — steady, reliable, and kind. If he loved you, you knew it. You felt it in the way he showed up, the way he listened, and the way he spoke about you when you weren’t there.

We will miss him more than words can express. But his legacy lives on — in the sea he loved, in the stories we tell, in the shed where his “meetings” took place, and most of all, in the family he cherished so deeply.

Gilbert leaves to mourn with fond and loving memories his daughter Kim (Riles) Campbell and son Terry Riles; granddaughter Jillian (Jaylon Atagoota) Riles; great‑grandson Raymond Campbell; great‑granddaughter Eden Atagoota ; and Chelsea Spicer, who was like a granddaughter to him.

He is also lovingly remembered by his brother and sisters Henry (Yvonne) Riles, Millie Seaward, Julie (Ron) Slade, and Katie King; his brothers‑ and sisters‑in‑law Cecil Stone, Max (Claire) Vautier, Gerald (Debbie) Vautier, and Sybil King; as well as a large circle of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Gilbert was predeceased by his beloved wife Amy Riles; granddaughter Tracey Campbell; siblings Annie Stone, Mary Robin, and Alex Riles; and brothers‑ and sisters‑in‑law Max Seaward, Clarence Robins, George King, Hubert Vautier, Albert Bond, Walter (Edna) Vautier, Ches (Lois) Vautier, Carrie (Max) Stone, Kathleen (Jack) LeRiche, Mildred (Jack) King, Gerald Wayne King, and Loretta Vautier.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Gilbert’s care team at 9 centre Northwood, Halifax, especially Sunshine (Arlene), for their compassion and dedication.

He was immensely proud of the accomplishments of Terry and Kim; what some called bragging was simply his way of showing love and pride.

Gilbert touched the lives of many — family, friends, and all who knew him. His support was unwavering, and his presence will be deeply missed.

As per Gilbert’s wishes cremation has already taken place. A celebration of life will be take place later in Newfoundland.