Classic & Timeless

Garland Eugene "Gary" Gillespie, 85, of North Liberty, Iowa, passed away on March 17, 2026. Born on February 13, 1941, in Red Oak, Iowa, to Floyd and Blanche Gillespie. Gary grew up with a stubborn streak, a sharp wit, and a work ethic that never quit.

Gary graduated from Coburg High School in 1959. He was a great student and excelled in basketball and baseball while attending Coburg High. Gary proudly served in the Red Oak National Guard, carrying with him a sense of duty and discipline that shaped the rest of his life. He was an extremely hard worker and never one to sit idle when there was something to be done. In 1965, he married the love of his life, Elaine Enarson Gillespie, and together they built a family and a lifetime of memories.

Anyone who knew Gary knew he was funny, often hilarious. He was always ready with a joke or a scheme to keep people on their toes. Gary enjoyed reading, photography, and history. His family history was very important to him, and he always enjoyed talking about it. He was also a man of strong opinions, and he wasn't shy about sharing them. When Gary set his mind to something, his determination made it happen, plain and simple. He was always up for a challenge.

Outside of work, Gary was an avid hunter and fisherman who loved nothing more than being outdoors. He had a real passion for hunting turkeys and enjoyed the challenge. Gary loved his dogs and always had one around. Whether it be a bird hunting dog or one of his many companion dogs, all named “Burt”. Gary was also a devoted sports fan. He enjoyed watching his kids and grandchildren play sports and was always ready for an action shot with camera in hand. Gary was also a loyal Iowa Hawkeye fan who followed the men’s and women’s basketball team and football team with enthusiasm. As an Iowa season football ticket holder for over 20 plus years, if the Hawkeyes were playing, Gary was watching.

Gary was preceded in death by his wife, Elaine Enarson Gillespie; his parents, Floyd and Blanche Gillespie; and his brother, Dennis Gillespie.

He is survived by his children Craig (Renee) Gillespie of Omaha, NE; Karla (Mark) Fay of Iowa City, IA; Scott (Jill) Gillespie of North Liberty, IA; grandchildren Madison, Rylee, Gavin and Jaxson; his siblings, Joyce (Phil) Kennon of Red Oak, IA; Judy Kay Meyers of

Littleton, CO; his sister-in-law Diane Gillespie of Omaha, NE. Gary leaves behind a family who will miss his laughter, his stubbornness, and his unwavering presence.

In Gary's own words: "See you another day, going another way, ain't got time to play, that's all I have to say."

Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at LeRette Funeral Chapel in Red Oak, Iowa, with the funeral service following at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place at Arlington Cemetery.

LeRette Funeral Chapel of Red Oak, Iowa, is in charge of arrangements.