(1949 – 2024) - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Larry at the Sault Area Hospital on Monday, January 15, 2024 at the age of 74. Beloved husband and soul mate of Dorothy for 53 years. Father of Shane (Mary) and Sherry. Grandfather of Erin, Amy and Aidan. Predeceased by his parents Fred and Pauline Gillespie. Brother of Fred Gillespie (Marilyn), Joan Randal (Gerard), Elvira Larocque, Marion Desjardins (late Henry), Paula March, Lynn Gillespie (Janet), Michael Gillespie (Irma), late Cyril Gillespie (Lynn), John Gillespie (Lorraine). Son-in-law of the late Joseph and the late Velma Wierzbicki. Brother-in-law of Joanne Sorrenti (late Frank), late Robert Wierzbicki (Brenda), late Donnie Wierzbicki (Laurel), late Thomas Wierzbicki (late Dianna), Bev Wierzbicki, and late Janice Wierzbicki (Wayne Scott). He will be remembered by his many nieces and nephews.
Born in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Larry moved to Toronto, Ontario in his early twenties. He met Dorothy and moved to the Soo in 1972. He worked at Algoma Steel in the Transportation Department for most of career as heavy equipment operator and dispatcher where he was known as Happy. He drove truck during his 'off' hours for Lyons Ready Mix, many of his friend’s trucking companies and equipment operator at Superior View Golf Course.
Larry and Dorothy loved camping and had a trailer at Fred's Trailer Park for 28 years. He was an avid hockey fan and loved to stand at the boards and watch his granddaughters play the game they love. His grandson Aidan will miss summers at the trailer with his grandfather.
Larry is now reunited with his best friend the late Gary Ingram. He enjoyed his weekly visits with Marg Ingram and hanging out in the garage with his good friend Adam Zucatto. Larry was like a crew member and will be missed by the OK Tire family. A special thank you to the staff on ICU at the SAH for the compassion shown to our family.
At his request there is no service. Memorial donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758). www.northwoodfuneral.com