Gillian Gratton Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Obituary, Death: Beloved Owner of Pet Planet Primrose & Advocate for Animal Welfare, Died April 11, At Age 33
Gillian Gratton Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Obituary, Death: With profound sadness and heavy hearts, we announce the sudden and tragic passing of Gillian Marie Gratton on April 11, 2025, at the age of 39. A vibrant and deeply loved individual, Gillian’s loss is felt not only by her family and friends but by the broader communities in which she played a vital role.
Born on November 26, 1985, in Calgary, Alberta, Gillian was the beloved daughter of Ron and Simone Gratton and the cherished younger sister of Curtis. Her early education was completed through Calgary Catholic Schools, and she graduated from Bishop Carroll High School in 2003. Gillian’s love of learning led her to pursue post-secondary studies first at Mount Royal University, then at the University of Calgary, before ultimately transferring to the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon in 2007. Accompanied by her first Portuguese Water Dog, Gambit, she found a new home and purpose in Saskatchewan.
Gillian earned her Bachelor of Science in 2009 and later her Master’s in Veterinary Biomedical Sciences in 2012. Following her studies, she began a rewarding career as a Lab Technician in Animal Studies at the University of Saskatchewan. Over the next decade, she played a pivotal role in guiding graduate students and managing the lab’s operations, becoming a trusted colleague and mentor.
In 2011, Gillian met Kevin Freistadt, and their bond quickly blossomed into a deep and enduring partnership. The couple married in April 2015 and built a life together on their rural property, surrounded by nature and animals. Gillian found immense joy in tending to her perennial and vegetable gardens, creating a peaceful koi pond, and walking her dogs through the forested 80 acres they called home.
Her love for animals was not just personal but professional and community-driven. Gillian became a passionate figure in Saskatoon’s dog community, participating in CKC Conformation events and expanding the Armada Portuguese Water Dogs breeding program. As an owner-handler, breeder, and advocate, she left an indelible mark through her dedication and advocacy—particularly with New Hope Rescue, where she worked tirelessly for canine welfare.
Her passion for animals extended beyond dogs. Gillian had a lifelong love for horses, first as a child with her steed “Cutie,” and later rekindled in 2017 with the purchase of her horse “Chevy.” Whether in the show ring or the pasture, Gillian’s spirit shone through in every endeavor.
Following the pandemic, Gillian took a bold step and made a lifelong dream a reality: opening her own pet supply store. Pet Planet Primrose Saskatoon, opened in 2021, quickly became a hub for pet lovers and a reflection of Gillian’s warmth, knowledge, and compassion. She nurtured both her clients and their pets with unwavering dedication.
Gillian is survived by her loving husband Kevin; parents Ron and Simone; brother Curtis (Kristin) and their children Sophia, William, and Jack; grandfather Edward Gratton; father-in-law Clayton Freistadt; brother-in-law Bob Freistadt and his son Dirk; and close family friends Wendi Stoeber and Edmond Lemire. She is also remembered by many extended family members, friends, and members of the animal welfare and veterinary communities.
A Celebration of Gillian’s Life will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at Saskatoon Funeral Home. Gillian will be remembered for her vibrant energy, generous heart, and the extraordinary care she showed to all living beings. Her legacy of love and compassion will live on in those she touched.
