Natalie Gillis Obituary – A tragic incident occurred on Monday when a plane crashed shortly after takeoff, resulting in the loss of a remarkable individual. Natalie Gillis, a 34-year-old pilot, photographer, poet, and wilderness guide from Calgary, was the sole victim in this devastating accident. Her brother, Matthew Yap, confirmed her untimely death in a heartfelt Facebook post. Overwhelmed with grief, Yap expressed his gratitude to the first responders, coroner, and NTSB for their efforts, condolences, and support.
Gillis’ journey towards becoming a pilot began when she started working as a wilderness guide after developing a passion for kayaking. This unique combination of professions allowed her to explore both poles and travel extensively across the Western hemisphere. In an interview with Kootenay Mountain Culture magazine, she revealed that she spent only 25 nights in her own bed in a year, highlighting her adventurous spirit.
Her diverse interests and ambitions were evident in the title of her profile, “What’s next, Ms. Gillis.” Gillis graduated from the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada, in 2013, with a degree in Environmental Governance and Political Science. She embarked on a sailing expedition in the Southern Ocean in 2019, serving as a sea-kayak guide for a sailboat journeying through the Drake Passage to Antarctica. She also self-published a book of poetry called “This Is Where Atlantis Sank,” documenting her remarkable journey.
Gillis’s contributions extended beyond her piloting skills. She flew mail and grocery deliveries to remote Inuit communities and supported missions for adventurers, explorers, and filmmakers. Recently, she completed a bikepacking expedition from Winnipeg to Calgary, covering a distance of over 1,400 kilometers (870 miles), as documented on her Facebook page.
Despite her adventurous pursuits, Gillis also found time to pursue academic achievements. She obtained a master’s degree in creative and critical writing from the University of England. Her life was a testament to her passion for exploration, creativity, and making a difference in the world.
