GILLESPIE, Larry L. of Grand Blanc age 91, died March 21, 2021 peacefully at The Oaks at Woodfield.
Larry was born April 17, 1929 in Flint, Michigan, the oldest son of Verne and Marie (Klein) Gillespie. At a young age his father bought a large farm in Mundy Township, Michigan. With advice from his grandfather William, Larry and his three brothers learned the responsibility and work effort needed to run the family farm. He was a graduate of Grand Blanc High School in 1947. After graduation Larry enlisted in the U.S. Army, while in the Army reserves he was recalled for the Korean War. Serving in the 2nd Division, 38th Infantry in Korea he rose to the rank of Sergeant First Class, in battle he was awarded the Silver Star and Bronze Star for bravery and two purple hearts.
Larry married Donna Stallcup on Dec. 6th, 1952 at Court St. Methodist church in Flint, Michigan. Larry retired from Grand Blanc Fisher Body with 47 years of service, earning a degree from GMI and working in Tool and Die. He enjoyed hunting, bowling, tailgating at U of M football games, and collecting antique toys, but his favorite pastime was his model train collection. He spent many hours collecting and building his layout of Lionel Trains, Larry always enjoyed showing his working collection of trains and accessories to all who would visit.
Larry was the loving father of two children, Michael (Laurie) Gillespie of Brownsburg, Cynthia (Patrick) Walsh of Savannah. Six Grandchildren, Gina (Shawn) Ryan, Scott Gillespie, Megan (Daniel) Swedloff, Ashley Borlik, Rachel Walsh and Brooke Walsh and seven Great-grandchildren. One brother Richard Gillespie of Croton, sister-in-law’s Beverly Gillespie and Patricia Gillespie, brother-in-law’s Ron and Gary (Barb) Willoughby and several nieces and nephews. Also special thanks to his good friends Wayne and Mary Stratton and the caring staff at The Oaks at Woodfield.
He was preceded in death by his wife Donna in 2010, his parents, two brothers Thomas and Jerome Gillespie, and sister-in-law’s Delores Gillespie and Pam Willoughby.
A private family service will be held at the Swartz Funeral Home, with burial at Evergreen Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Disabled American Veterans or a charity of your choice.
Read More
