Leon J. Gillespie

Leon J. Gillespie age 90 of West Branch, passed away Saturday, July 07, 2012 at Bortz Health Care in West Branch. Leon was born February 11, 1922 in Whittemore, the son of Russell and Edna Gillespie. He married Rosemary Elkins on March 6, 1946 in St. Louis, Missouri. Leon lived in West Branch for most of life and was a member of the First United Methodist Church, the Shriners, and the Masons. He enjoyed being in the Shriner parades and collecting donations. He loved to work on furniture and old bikes and then after they were finished, his family would say they were “Leonized.” Leon is survived by his loving wife Rosemary of West Branch children, Ron (Sandy) Gillespie of Midland and Brad Gillespie of Traverse City, grandchildren Jeffrey (Lisa) Gillespie of Waterford, Michelle Gillespie of Apollo Beach, FL, and great-grandchildren, Brittney, Stephanie, and Bailey. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Carol Ann Winters and his brother, Karlton R Gillespie. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, July 13, 2012 at the First United Methodist Church in West Branch at 11:00 am with family receiving friends beginning 10:00 am until the time of the service. Rev. Lisa Cook will officiate. Burial of cremains will take place at 3:00 pm at Brookside Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Shriners.