Ralph C. Gillespie

Gillespie, Ralph C.
Rapid River, Michigan

Age 70, passed away on Friday evening, November 28, 2003 at his home with his family following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on December 27, 1932 in Appleton and resided here most of his life. Ralph was a proud veteran of the US Army and served in the Korean Conflict. Following his honorable discharge, he was married to Sandra Neuman for 27 years. He worked as a pipe fitter at REPAP in Kimberly for 41 years. He was a member of the Paper workers Union and served as an officer. On June 9, 1983 Ralph and Leota “Lee” Wheeler were united in marriage at Trinity Lutheran Church in Appleton. They resided in Appleton until his retirement. In 1991 they relocated to Rapid River, Michigan. Ralph and Lee loved their home on the Bay, spending time together gardening, bird watching, and having family and friends visit. Ralph also enjoyed the Packers, hunting, and fishing. Ralph and Lee were both members of the American Legion August Mattson Post #71 of Gladstone. Their involvement in the Legion was a large part of their lives. After 20 years of marriage Lee left Ralph’s side only in death on June 7, 2003.
Survivors include his sons: Jon (Wanda) Gillespie of Appleton, and Brian (Kathy) Schiltz of Freedom, five daughters: Cynthia Riedel of Naples, Florida, Jayne (Sam) Carroll of Gresham, Wisconsin, Laura (David) Huerta of Tucson, Arizona, Patricia (Dan) Rozinski of Neenah, and Cynthia (Bill) Duncan of Appleton; his mother-in-law Regean Thomack of Appleton, and a brother-in-law Floyd Abendroth of Appleon; ten grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife “Lee”, a brother Robert Gillespie, a sister Pat Abendroth, and a grandson Alex Carroll in 1988.
A service with military honors was held in Michigan. Visitation in Appleton will be at the Wichmann Tri-County Chapel on Wednesday from 4:00 PM until a prayer service at 7:00 PM. with the Rev. Interment will take place at Highland Memorial Park.
We would like to express a special thank-you to his very close friends, Terry and Sue Berg, for all their kindness during the difficult illness of our father. We would also like to express our gratitude to fellow members of the Gladstone American Legion and to the Theda Care Hospice of Appleton, and OSF Hospice of Delta County for their care and consideration. Because of all of these people, Ralph was able to be at his home, which he enjoyed so much, during his final days.
Dad- We’ll leave the lights on for you.
“Whatever”