John Gillen, Age 77

John Gillen worked for many years as a history teacher at New Dorp HS in Staten Island until his retirement in 1977. He was known for his expertise in the American Civil War and yearly trips to Gettysburg. John was also a UFT activist and volunteer throughout his teaching career and he participated in union organizing, rallies, contract actions, campaign phone banks and served as delegate to AFT and NYSUT conventions. John is remembered fondly by his UFT colleagues and friends. Among his hobbies, John was an avid Eagles fan and enjoyed collecting model trains. John is survived by his cousins, Irene Renzo and James Sullivan.