William B. Gillespie

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Gillespie, William B. "Bill" Age 76, of Minnetrista, died April 22, 2013 after a valiant fight with cancer. Bill was born in Minneapolis to Elliott and Ellengene Gillespie. Bill was a veteran of the US Army. Following his honorable discharge, he became a Hennepin County Deputy Sheriff. Along with his partner Bill Barry, Bill was chosen to start the first Hennepin County Crime Lab (CSI). Bill was selected to be a WCCO Good Neighbor on several occasions, but nowhere was he a good neighbor more than in his community. He was a Mason. Bill was a talented woodworker, fixer of bicycles and toys, mentor of children, friend to the schools and many local organizations. He was influential in the lives of many generations of neighborhood kids; he was even known to subsidize a prom dress, school trip or laptop in exchange for chores. One of his greatest gifts to his community was the creation of The Gillespie Center in Mound. When the senior citizens were in need of a venue, Bill's donation made the Center a reality. Bill loved his family and dogs, the Lake, time spent at the cabin, crossword puzzles, "putzing", cars and gadgets. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, sister and best friend, Gloria Gillespie Anderson and brother-in-law Richard Anderson. He is survived by his niece and her husband Carol and Jim O'Connor and great-nephew Adam O'Connor. A Memorial Service will be held Monday, May 20, 2013 at St. Martin's by the Lake Episcopal Church at 3:00 PM, followed by reception to celebrate his life. Wear yellow! It was his favorite color. Bertas Funeral Home, Chaska bertasfh.com

Published on April 24, 2013