Gary Wayne Gillespie

"How lucky I am to have something that makes saying good-bye so hard"
~ Winnie the Pooh

Gary was born in Salt Lake City, Utah and was welcomed by his parents, Ina and Robert Gillespie, along with his two brothers, Robert and Gayle. Born into three generations of miners, Gary loved being outside digging in the dirt.

Gary married his high school sweetheart, Sherrie Black, and together they raised their three daughters, Michelle, Angie and Melissa. He enjoyed spending time with them going on camping trips, boating, skiing and snow skiing. Gary worked very hard at everything he set out to do. He had a brilliant mind as a computer programmer, which took he and his family on a new adventure moving them to England. It was there that Gary learned to appreciate British culture, visiting small pubs, drinking whiskey and ale, and taking his family to historic English landmarks and castles. Living in England offered them the opportunity to travel throughout Europe. Gary also earned his title of "Captain" when he decided to learn how to sail. He took his family on several sailing adventures across the Mediterranean and throughout the Caribbean.

Following his divorce, Gary met Teresa Harley. He fell in love with her two children, Danny and Emma, and helped to raise them as his own. Together, Gary and Teresa, had a daughter, Roberta Lynn, who was named after his two brothers Robert Weir and Gayle Lynn Gillespie.

Gary spent several years traveling from London to Salt Lake City, allowing him to ride his Harley through the mountains and work at his mine. After over 30 years of living abroad, Gary was ready to retire from his company and he moved back to Salt Lake City, Utah.

Five years ago, Gary began dating Debra Summers and he proposed to her in 2016. The two of them have enjoyed the past several years going on fun adventures together.

Gary lived an incredibly fun and adventurous life, full of love and laughter. Cancer took his life from us far too early. During the past month of his life, Gary was surrounded in love by his friends, family, Debra, and his daughters.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, September 28th, 11:00am at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. 1342 East 500 South, Salt Lake City, UT, 84102, followed by a Celebration of Life at a location to be determined.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Quality Hospice, 888 East 3900 South, Unit B, Salt Lake City, UT, 84107

Quality Hospice was incredible with their care and compassion towards our dad, Gary Gillespie. We would like to thank them for all the support they have given us and for all the other families they have assisted.

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