On March 1, 2023, Frederick S. Gillespie, 81, went home to be with the Lord surrounded by his family. Heaven gained a kind, compassionate soul, and this side of Heaven will never be the same.

He was born in Erie, PA on November 24, 1941, the son of the late Sherman L. and Doris (Stolz) Gillespie, and his love of starting a conversation and the gift of telling stories, time and time again, will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

After graduating Academy High School, Frederick enlisted in the United States Air Force and served for four years and was stationed in both in Washington, D.C. and Alaska. Shortly after returning from serving his country, Fred met the love of his life. In fact, he saw her from across a room while she was working at Erie Infants Home. Only after four months of meeting, Fred married his love, Karen, and on March 25, Fred and Karen would have been married for 58 happy years. Their legacy of love set the standard very high for their children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

Although he started his career at GE, Fred chose to join the family business at Gillespie Machine and Tool and remained there as the president and, later, owner until he retired. No matter if in Florida, where he and his bride became snowbirds, or in Pennsylvania, Fred always served his community. He was an avid bowler and earned the title of "Rolo," and as a softball player, he was known as "King of the Court." Many fond memories were created when Fred coached Little League for 11 years, and he was still called "coach" by many. In his spare time, he loved watching sports, and he was a very loyal Cleveland Browns fan. However, his favorite athletes to celebrate were his own children and later his grandsons, no matter how far MeMa and Papa had to travel. The most cherished cheer was, "Come on, Pal, be relentless!" Frederick is survived by his loving wife, Karen, and his three children, Cindy (Stephen) Rewers, Frederick C. Gillespie (Julie) and Nathan Gillespie who will daily attempt to spread his kindness and "gift of gab." He was lovingly referred to as "Papa" by his grandchildren Andrew Rubright (Colleen), Amanda Stoneback (Steven), Zachariah Gillespie (Tatyana), Joshua Gillespie (Hannah), and Frederick N. Gillespie (Sarah). His greatgrandchildren lovingly referred to him as "Big Papa," and Landon, Brayden, Arie, Michael and Cate will miss you so very much. Frederick is survived by his two sisters, Linda (John) Vargo and Ann (Karl) Wollman, and he will also be missed by family members and dear friends, both in PA and in FL.

Friends and family may pay their respects on Sunday, March 5, 2023, at Brugger Funeral Home located at 1595 West 38th Street, Erie, PA 16508 from 12 p.m. until the time of a service at 4 p.m. with Pastor Edward Huntley officiating.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, please donate by mailing directly to the Veterans Miracle Center at 1573 West 39th Street, Erie, Pennsylvania 16509 "In memory of Frederick S. Gillespie."

Condolences may be sent at www.bruggerfuneralhomes.com