Nikolas Duane Gillespie Sr.

Nikolas Duane “Nik” Gillespie Sr., age 36, of Battle Creek passed away January 26, 2026. He was born in Battle Creek on December 25, 1989, the son of Ed and Teresa (Graham) Gillespie. Nik attended Gull Lake Schools and graduated from the Delton Kellogg Alternative School. For most of his life, he worked as a roofer. Nik loved to fish and hunt and the outdoors. He spent a lot of time fishing on Fine Lake where he learned the best fishing spots from his Grandpa Duane. Nik also truly enjoyed spending time at Bill & Justine's home, spending time with them and his niece, Paisley.

Nik is survived by his son, Nikolas, Jr. of Tennessee; his parents; his brother, Bill (Justine) Gillespie; and his niece, Paisley. He is also survived by his uncles, Brian Graham and Kevin (Alicia) Graham; cousins, Spencer and Natalee Graham, Chelsea (Evan) Lobdell and their children Blaire, Flynn, Joyce and Warren, Brianne Graham and TJ Steven’s and their children Kaden, Joren and Nola, Brittney Lopez and her children Ty, Malaya, Amora and Vince, Daniel Lopez, Jessica Graham and her children. Nik was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Duane and Ellie Gillespie and maternal grandparents, Chris Graham and Pat Smith.

TO BE ABSENT FROM THE BODY IS TO BE PRESENT WITH THE LORD

A memorial service to celebrate Nik’s life will be held 11:00 a.m. Monday, February 2, 2026 at the Redemption Lutheran Church, 2450 W. Michigan Ave. Battle Creek, MI 49017. A luncheon will follow immediately after the service. The family requests casual attire, maybe camo or MSU!  Inurnment will be held privately at East Hickory Corners Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials directed to the family, would be appreciated. Arrangements by the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, Richland Chapel. Personal messages for the family and favorite memories of Nik may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.