Shay Daniel Gillette

was born in Seattle, Washington July 1, 1963 to Ronald and Delores (Dee Dee) Gillette. He arrived after much difficulty and at his own time. Displaying a stubborn streak that would last throughout his lifetime. Shay grew up in Bellevue and Redmond Washington, attending schools in those cities. He was a member of the Newport High School class of 1981.Shay was diagnosed at age nine with diabetes. He had is own sense of how to care for himself, teaching his younger brother to administer insulin shots (without telling his mom). He loved music, loved to read and had a curious mind, wanting know how everything works.After high school, Shay joined the rock band Airborn, traveling Washington and Canada to different venues. He was the best "roadie" the band ever had. When the band disbanded, Shay went to work in the restaurant industry as a cook. He loved cooking and was proud of the dishes he originated, especially his Holiday Carrots. In recent years Shay was unable to work due to complications of his diabetes.Shay never married, losing his first love to the glamour of ice-skating. He never regretted not marrying as he didn't want to burden anyone with his medical problems.Although limited in what he could do, Shay loved helping others. He was a quiet man who loved Jesus and was quick to offer help in any way he could, often to his own detriment. Shay adored his nieces and nephews and prized the time he could spend with them. The family wishes to thank Messenger House, Bainbridge Island and Evergreen Rehab, Bremerton for their unfailing care and commitment to Shay's wellbeing.Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend the Memorial Service on November 15, 2008 at 1:00 pm at Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, 45 Redeemer Way (PO Box 70), Chimacum, WA 98325. (360) 385-6977.Memorial Donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association, PO Box 7023, Merrifield, Virginia 22116.