Clare Eugene Gillespie

Clare E Gillespie, age 87, passed away August 26, 2020. He was born on August 12, 1933 in Muskegon Heights, MI, to Harold and Pearl (Veach) Gillespie. Clare was raised in Muskegon, MI where, in his teens, he set his eyes on the love of his life. He married that high school sweetheart, Karleen Somero and they celebrated 68 wonderful years of marriage together. He was a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He was a dedicated, hardworking man, retiring from Continental Motors after 40 years of service. He loved playing cards, especially euchre, cribbage and poker. He enjoyed card tricks, horseshoes, gardening and animals, including his dog Dutch, who was very spoiled. Clare enjoyed most sports, but boxing was his passion. He grew up learning how to box, and eventually became a golden gloves boxer, a feat that he was very proud of. He loved a great meal, valued his trusted friends, and appreciated a good joke and a laugh. Most of all, he deeply loved Jesus, his wife and his family. Clare will always be remembered for how he enjoyed life, for his appreciation of country music, and for his mischievous smile. He is survived by his wife, Karleen; brother, Tom; 7 children, Greg (Bettie), Deborah, Matt (Marcia), Marilyn, Doug, Harold, Loren (Karen); 19 grandchildren, 39 great grand children, and 7 great-great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Pearl; sisters Joyce Henry, Carolene Poling, and brother Bud (Clifford), daughter in-law Donna, and granddaughter Misty. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2020 at 11:00am at Shores Community Church, 3800 Lake Harbor Rd., Norton Shores, MI 49441, internment to follow at Sunrise Memorial Gardens. Masks are required.