GILLESPIE, WILLARD IRVINE - It is with deep sadness that the family of Willard I. Gillespie of Harvey, York Co., NB announces his passing on August 4, 2013 at Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital, after a long battle with cancer. Willard was born at Thomaston Corner, York Co., NB on March 13, 1932, the son of the late William and Janie (Moffitt) Gillespie. Willard worked most of his life as a locomotive engineer and also spent time in the trucking and wood harvesting industry earlier in his career. Willard enjoyed car racing, fishing and hunting, all his life and was dedicated to his children and their families. Willard is survived by his wife of 57 years, Madelon (Randall) Gillespie; his children, Brian Gillespie (Karen), Nackawic, NB, Deborah Harvey (Mike), Harvey, NB and Richard Gillespie (Joanne), Harvey, NB; eight grandchildren, Craig, Hugh, Krystle, BJ, Cody, Noah, Kyle and Jake; two great granddaughters, Madelyn and Bridget; two sisters, Beatrice Young, Saint John, NB and Dawn Marie Carr (Edgar), Millinocket, ME; several nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a daughter, Cindy Gillespie in 2010; an infant son, Barry; two sisters, Florence McAvour and Margaret Wilkin; three brothers, Roy, Allen and Gordon Gillespie. Special thanks to Dr. Debra Gowan and the doctors and staff of the oncology department, and the 4SE at the DECH for their compassion and care during these difficult times.
Resting at Swan Funeral Chapel, 1826 Route 3, Harvey Station, NB with visiting hours on Tuesday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, August 7, 2013 at 1 p.m. from the funeral home chapel with Rev. George Clark and Hollis Clark officiating. Interment at Harvey Settlement Cemetery followed by a reception at the Knox Presbyterian Church Youth Hall. For those who wish to make a donation in memory of Willard, the family has suggested the Canadian Cancer Society. www.flewellingswan.com