GILLESPIE - Allen Dale Gillespie passed away on March 30, 2012 at River Heights Lodge. He was born June 23, 1927 at Oyen, Alberta to parents Charles and Ruby Gillespie. Both of his parents immigrated from Ireland, homesteading in the Oyen district. He had an older brother Stan. He was raised on the farm and would assist his parents with the chores. Allen attended Fairacres country school for his elementary grades, and moved to Oyen for room and board so he could attend high school. He achieved a partial grade 12, and was one class short to graduate. During WWII Allen was in the Air Forces working as a mechanic while stationed at Camp Borden. He received a medical discharge. Allen spent the next 33 years working as a station agent for CN railroad. Through those years, he would "bid" on various jobs, resulting in a few moves throughout Alberta and Saskatchewan. On November 1, 1954, Allen and Gertrude (nee Oszust) were married. He is survived by his wife Gertie; daughter Susan Gillespie-Meise of North Battleford; grandchildren: Kerry of North Battleford, Alaina of Saskatoon, Kendra (Brandon Whitt) of North Battleford, and Michael (Haylee Chorney) of Saskatoon. Honorary pallbearers were everyone who was involved in his life. Service was held on Tuesday, April 3, 2012 at the Chapel of Sallows and McDonald-Wilson and Zehner Funeral Home with Pastor Dennis Ramsay officiating. Interment will take place at a later date at the family plot in Oyen, Alberta. CARD OF THANKS We wish to thank the nurses and staff at River Heights Lodge for the excellent care Allen received over the years. Thank you to Pastor Dennis Ramsay for the service; dear friend Gwen Friesen for providing the beautiful music; the Notre Dame CWL for providing the lunch; as well as all those who attended the service, phoned, and sent flowers and cards. Your kindness and thoughtfulness at this time will be forever remembered and appreciated
