Dr. Robert Hugh Gorill of Kingston, Ont. passed away peacefully after a long illness at the age of 85 on Nov. 20, 2023. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Carolyn (nee King) Gorwill, and children - Dr. Susan Gorwill (Len Griffiths), Ann Gorwill (Ian Nicholls), Tom Gorwill (Justice Christine Pallotta); grandchildren - Alex Griffiths, Kara Griffiths (Joel Hurren), Laura Gorwill, Carolyn Gorwill and great-grandchild - Sophie Hurren. Hugh was predeceased by his parents Dr. John and Margaret Gorwill, sisters Ellen Williams, Nora Bridle and brother John Gorwill. He is remembered by his sisters, Ruth Van Rooijen and Joan Kalechstein.
Hugh was born in Edinburgh, Scotland in 1938 and grew up in southwestern Ontario, graduating from Western University with an M.D. in 1962. It was there he met Carolyn. He pursued post-graduate medical studies at Western, Queen's University and the University of Michigan. In 1970, he joined the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Queen's, becoming chair of the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology in 1975 and department head from 1985-95. He retired in 2004, as professor emeritus. He was consistently recognized for his excellence in clinical teaching, research and patient care.
In retirement, Hugh was active in the community through volunteer involvement with the KGH Foundation and the Museum of Health Care, where he was Board President from 2013-17. He leaves behind the legacy of his family and the many lives he touched throughout his dedicated career. We are grateful for the exceptional care Hugh received at The John M. Parrott Centre, and earlier from Dr. Darren Lett and Dr. Lisa Forster. Should you wish to donate in his memory please consider The John M. Parrott Centre or the Museum of Health Care at Kingston.