Robert Gillespie

1943 - 2025

Robert Joseph Gillespie, age 82, passed away peacefully at his home with his family by his side, on Saturday, September 13, 2025. "Bob" courageously fought a three year battle with lung cancer.

Bob was born on May 22, 1943 in Twin Falls, Idaho to the parents of Joseph Emory Gillespie and Alice Ruth Gillespie. Siblings include Emory Eldon Gillespie, John Emory "Jack" Gillespie (wife, Madeline and two daughters, Sheryl Tegelberg (Emery) and Gayle Graff (Dick)), and James "Jimmy" Alan Gillespie (three children, Eileen, Guy, and Christine).

Bob was married to Bonnie Jane Dohse on June 4th, 1965. They had two children, Robbie Ray Gillespie (wife, Ellen) (previous wife, Dana and four children, Jake, Kassie (Tanner), Cory (Molly) and Alex), and Robyn Rochelle Stephenson (husband, Damon and three children, Tyson (Keli), Carter (Nayah), and Kamryn).

After graduating from Twin Falls Highschool in 1961, Bob attended Idaho State University for one year pursuing aviation mechanics. He later changed direction and graduated from Twin Falls Business College with a Junior Accounting degree in business management. Bob met Jack Sears shortly before him and Bonnie got married. That friendship led to Bob's partnership in Banner Furniture, which he later purchased from Jack. That career spanned nearly 50 years, before Bob retired and liquidated the business. Shortly thereafter, Bob and Bonnie moved to Kuna, Idaho to be with their children and grandchildren.

Bob had a multitude of achievements and hobbies in his lifetime. He and his friend Jack Sears built an experimental Quickie or "Q2" airplane together. Bob was a sport pilot and enjoyed a lifetime of flying the Q2. He also had a passion for anything "planes, trains, boats, and cars". Hours were spent building models, RC airplanes and boats. Many of which won National competitions. Bob and family also restored his first car, a 1931 Model A Ford sedan. It has been a beloved treasure of his that they took to car shows and drove in many parades. Bob also enjoyed many adventures and activities; including scuba diving, camping, golfing, rafting, skiing and another favorite–boating. Bob and Bonnie took annual trips to Lake Powell and the San Juan Islands for over 20 years–introducing those very special places to their children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and a multitude of friends and family. He was a member of many organizations including Rotary International, Twin Falls Chamber of Commerce, Treasure Valley Model A Club, Magic Valley Aeromodelers and Magic Valley Dive Club. Bob and Bonnie were also able to take and enjoy many vacations around the world.

Bob is survived by his wife, Bonnie; his two kids, and all of his grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, all of his siblings, and many aunts and uncles.

Bob's Memorial service will be held at Kuna Lutheran Church at 128 E. Porter St. in Kuna. Viewing will begin at 10:45 a.m. followed by a service at 12 p.m. A light lunch will be served following the service. In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to Kuna Lutheran Church in memory of Bob.