Rodney A. Gillis, 59, of Niagara Falls, NY passed away on July 4, 2025 at his residence as a result of natural causes. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of Gregory G. and Judith ‘Judy’ M. (Heller) Gillis.
Rod earned his GED from Erie Community College. He owned and operated his own business, Hot Rod Cycles, located on Pine Avenue in Niagara Falls for 15 years. As a child, he enjoyed playing at his father’s motorcycle shop with his sister, racing motorcycles, and hot rodding around the town. An avid motor head, Rodney was a former member of the American Motorcycle Association and Canadian Motorcycle Association. He also enjoyed listening to good music, especially 97 Rock.
Rodney is gone too soon at 59, but will fly high and continue to watch over his family.
In addition to his parents, Rodney is survived by a son, Richard Hetherly; his sister, Monica (Michael, Jr.) Haun; his niece, Matilda Haun; his aunt, Denise (Claude) Burson, as well as several cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his uncle, Brian R. Gillis, and his longtime girlfriend, Michele Perry.
Funeral services and interment will be held on Thursday, July 10 at 11 AM at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, 3806 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14301. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to the Niagara County SPCA, www.niagaraspca.org/. Arrangements by M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
Funeral Service
Thursday, July 10, 2025
11:00 AM
St. Joseph’s Cemetery
3806 Pine Avenue
Niagara Falls, NY 14301Get Directions on Google Maps
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