August 10, 1934 - January 19, 2025
In loving memory ~
With mixed emotions of sadness for our loss and joy for His freedom of pain, we announce the passing of Donald Lyle Gillespie, ''Big G'' , on January 19, 2025 in Salmon Arm BC.
Born August 10, 1934 at Mayo, Y. T., he moved to Dawson City where he spent his youth with Sternwheelers, outhouses and gold panners.
He moved to Kelowna to finish out his high school years. As a logger he moved to the Revelstoke area working at Sidmouth (south of Revelstoke) where he met his forever match (Grace Ellen Mackey).
He was a beloved husband, of 68 . years to Grace, also a dad to Wade (Kelly), Donald (Gloria) & Dina (Jim).
He was predeceased by his parents Ada and Archie and his brothers Dick & Keith. His sister Ruth remains as the sole surviving sibling. Don was also a grandfather to Chad, Tyler, Nick, Jennifer, Ryan, and Sean.
Don was blessed with great grandchildren along with a number of pretty special nephews and nieces.
He was also a good business partner, teammate, classmate, fishing buddy and a friend to many.
In his 90 years with us he touched countless lives. From the late 1940's as ambassador for the Yukon to the last 50+ years as an ambassador for Revelstoke.
Most notable, his business and community involvement, which included introducing and building up a cable television system which would end up as Revelstoke Cable TV. His service and volunteer years had a list so long we can only mention some. Mayor, Councillor, Firefighter, Ambulance attendant, Chamber President, Rotary President and District Coroner. He accomplished this all while keeping in balance with the 4:30 safety meetings, sports, travel and ''The Lake'' (Mara).
He showed us leadership, loyalty, commitment, bravery, courage, fortitude and most of all friendship.
He chose to not have a funeral, but he always liked a celebration. So, celebrate Don anytime he comes to mind. And when a time and place can be arranged, we'll celebrate together.
To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.bowersfuneralservice.com.