Don Gillis, dean of Boston TV sportscasting, dies at 85

BOSTON—Don Gillis, a broadcaster who helped pioneer the evening television sportscast in Boston and was the longtime TV host of Candlepin Bowling, has died at age 85, his son said Thursday.

Gillis died Wednesday at his home in Falmouth after suffering a series of small strokes three weeks ago, Gary Gillis said.

The elder Gillis was born in Nova Scotia in 1922. He began a career in radio broadcasting at New Bedford's WBSM-AM after serving in the Navy during World War II. He later joined WHDH-AM, then the flagship station of the Boston Red Sox.

Gillis began sportscasting on WHDH-TV in October 1962, on the night Johnny Carson debuted as host of "The Tonight Show."

He later became the station's sports director, before joining the new WCVB-TV in March 1972 in the same position. He retired in 1983, but continued hosting the popular candlepin bowling show until 1995, Gillis said.

"We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our former colleague, the dean of Boston television sports, Don Gillis and extend our heartfelt sympathies to his family," according to a statement released by WCVB-TV. "Generations of local viewers grew up watching Don as both a sports anchor and host of the popular Candlepin Bowling program."

The station described Gillis as "a true Boston legend," adding: "He leaves a legacy of warmth, humor and mentorship to the many who followed in his footsteps."

The wake is set for Monday, between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., at the Chapman, Cole and Gleason Funeral Home in Falmouth. The funeral will be on Tuesday at St. Patrick's Church in Falmouth, Gillis said.

The elder Gillis is survived by his wife, three daughters, two sons, a stepson and 12 grandchildren, and a brother.