Pillar Point N.Y.

Harold Gilligan Jr., also known as Peanut, 58, Passed away peacefully on February 3rd 2015.

Peanut is survived by his wife Crystal (Sawyer) Gilligan.

He is also survived by his three daughters; Amber Gilligan and Krista Young, Autumn and Donnie Bailey, April and Martin Pitrik; as well as one son Andrew Gilligan who lives at home and his fiancé Jessy Reyes.

Peanut has several grandchildren; Ryan, Brook-lynne, Emma, Ayden, Anna, Kaylin, Ella, Evan, Owen, and are also currently expecting his 10thgrandchild, Andrew's son who is due on May 30th, Alexander Lloyd.

Four brothers; Dennis Gilligan and Dawn, David Gilligan and Maryanne, Patrick Gilligan and Jeanette, as well as Michael Gilligan and Toni. One sister, Gail Arvizo and Antonio.

He is also survived by several cousins, nieces and nephews both local as well as Arizona, California, Nevada, and Wisconsin.

He is predeceased by his parents, Harold Sr. and Shirley, as well as his brothers Steven and Richard. Peanut was born on August 5th1956 the son of Harold Sr. and Shirley (Durant) Gilligan. Later in life, he then married the love of his life Crystal A. Sawyer on April 19th1980, At the Brownville Mansion in Brownville NY. Upon marriage, Peanut and Crystal Gilligan moved to Las Vegas NV. Their first daughter Amber S. Gilligan was born during their time there. He was first employed at Palace Station Casino. Other jobs held while in Nevada were at The Four Queens Hotel and Casino, The Flamingo Hilton, and as a slot technician for Games of Nevada.

Moving back to Watertown, New York Peanut and Crystal gave birth to their other three children Autumn, April, and Andrew. His employment in Watertown included work as a Bartender at the Hitchin Post Tavern. He passionately managed the softball team while employed there, leading the team to win many trophies as well as the championship. He maintained many childhood friendships throughout his employment there that he cared very deeply for.

He also worked at Knowlton Brothers Paper Mill. He was deeply affected both mentally and physically by the events that took place during his time of employment there. During the renovation of the mill in 2002, an explosion took place taking the life of his supervisor Tom Traynor. Peanut and several other coworkers were injured as well. However, even in this time of duress he clung to his courageous nature. He re-entered the building saving several lives of his coworkers. He was a hero that day. The conditions of his place of employment and ultimately the events of June 11, 2002 led to his unfortunate decline in health and his early retirement.

Peanut was well known, liked throughout the community, and loved deeply by all who truly knew him. He was generous to a fault. He could always be counted on and was a man of his word. He was a very hard worker and an excellent provider for his family. He hustled at whatever he attempted to do. Peanut held an unusual fondness of the letter L and all things green, especially exotic plants. He loved pottery and bowls as well. He was a lover of Animals, especially his two dogs "moll moll and dip dip" as he lovingly referred to them. He enjoyed many sports, watching them and participating in them as well. He was an extremely fit and athletic man prior to his illness. He played rugby for the Watertown Wallabies, and Sunday touch football and baseball leagues.

You can easily judge the character of a man by how he treats those that can do nothing for him – Johann Wolfgang Goethe

Harold "Peanut" Gilligan was a man of great character and strength.

Arrangements have been made through Hart and Bruce Funeral Home.

There will be no funeral or calling hours at this time.

A memorial service is planned for a later date in the spring.

Condolences and donations can be sent to PO Box 233 Dexter, NY 13634