Michael L. Gillespie Sr. died on Sept. 4, 2023 surrounded by family and close friends after a short but fierce battle with cancer at his residence in Puyallup, Washington.

He was born in Aberdeen Washington on April 4, 1943 to James Roy Gillespie and Marion Hyde. He grew up in Cosmopolis and attended elementary school there. He graduated from Weatherwax High School in Aberdeen. Right out of high school he joined the United States Navy serving proudly on the USS Watts.

After leaving the Navy he returned to the Grays Harbor area and held many different jobs, eventually becoming an over the road truck driver which moved him to Puyallup. After a few years on the road, he took a job as Utility locator which he enjoyed. After retirement he began working part-time for the Puyallup Fair right up to the end.

He is survived by his partner Nancy, kids James Flagstaff, Arizona, Mike Jr.(Donia) Flagstaff, Arizona, Troy (Jill) Aberdeen, Washington, daughter Tiffany, Aberdeen, Washington, many grandkids, great-grandkids, nieces and nephews. He loved all of his family dearly and was proud of each and every one of them.

He was preceded in death by his Father and Mother, brothers Art, Stan and Richard Hayes, sisters Lillian Gagne and Betty and stepson Todd Kozlowski.

He will be laid to rest in the Cosmopolis cemetery in a private ceremony.

A celebration of life will take place at the Aberdeen Elks on April 13, 2024.