Russell Arlen Gillispie

Russell A Gillispie, age 84 of Northfield passed away peacefully June 21, 2025 at NRC with family by his side. Russell was born June 25, 1940 to Marion and Viola (Drentlaw) Gillispie in Stanton MN and was raised on the family farm. He graduated from Randolph Public School in 1958. Russell met Yvonne (Bonnie) Pinc of Northfield at a dance at the Northfield Armory and they became high school sweethearts and were married on June 18, 1960 at the United Methodist Church in Northfield. They made their home in Northfield where they raised their two daughters. Besides being a dad, he worked for many years at the Dakota County Tribune. As the girls were growing up the family spent a lot of time riding their horses and attending horse shows across the state.
Russell was active in the Rainbow Saddle Club and an active JJ gang member during the Defeat of Jesse James Days raid reenactment. They spent a lot of time camping at Lake Byllesby teaching their 5 grandsons about boating, water skiing, tubing and enjoying campfires. Russell loved being outdoors fishing, hunting small game and snowmobiling. After Russell and Bonnie retired they enjoyed going to coffee at McDonald's with friends, attending the grandkids sporting events and going to Elko Speedway to watch their son-in-law race. They spent winters in Texas with their 5th wheel camper and made long time friends.
Russell will be remembered as a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and always a smile. Russell is survived by daughters Dawn (David) Parrott of Northfield, Debra (Fran) Haan of Farmington, brother Gene (Sig) Gillispie Northfield, Curt Gillispie Oklahoma, Kevin (Bonnie) Gillispie Cannon Falls; grandchildren Darrin Parrott and friend Anna, Dustin Parrott, Daniel (Laura) Parrott, Tony (Nichole) Haan. Great grandchildren Emerson, Henrik, Radek and Corbin Parrott, Judd and Logyn Haan. He is preceded in death by his wife Bonnie, his parents, sister Shirley (Herb) Peterson, brother Harold and grandson Travis Haan. Thank you to the Allina Hospice team - Tom, Christina, Barb and Kim for their time and dedication.
A Celebration of Russell's Life will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 PM on Wednesday, July 2 at L&M Bar & Grill & Patio in Dundas. Interment will be held at the Northfield Cemetery. Arrangements are with the Bierman, Benson, & Langehough Funeral Home.