- Date Of Birth: August 31, 1944
- Date Of Death: November 19, 2021
- City: Clifton
- State: Texas
Richard “Dick” Gillespie of Port St. Lucie passed away on 19 November 2021 at Martin Rehabilitation and Nursing in Stuart, FL.
He was born in Clifton, Texas on 31 August 1944 to James William Gillespie and Dorothy Norinne Fort. He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Peggy Jacqueline (Gambrell) Gillespie. Also, surviving are his son, Dale Cooney of Stuart, FL, daughter-in-law, Kathleen Cooney (Raymond) of Port Charlotte, FL, grandson Bradley Cooney, granddaughter, Brittany Cooney, and two brothers, Don Gillespie (Vickie) of Houston and David Gillespie (Laura) of Plano, Texas, and his nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents and son Raymond Thomas Cooney.
Dick spent his career in computer technology beginning with Ross Perot at EDS and later as Executives in the insurance industry. He was past President of the Battle Creek, Michigan Kiwanis, and past Kiwanis District Lieutenant Governor.
He was a member of the Sons of the American Revolution and a past officer of the Kalamazoo Astronomical Society. Dick was a devoted husband and father to his children and grandchildren.
Dick was a strong and brilliant man. His knowledge extended over a large variety of topics. He helped his dad build two boats, made his own water ski that the family skied on for years.
Dick built two telescopes, one with a 12-inch mirror and one with an 18-inch mirror, built his own computer and computers for his family. He was a certified scuba diver and instrument-rated private pilot.
