Donald Martin Gillespie was born July 21, 1953, in Quinter, KS, to the late Varney 'Pete' and Margaret (Schurr) Gillespie. He passed away Thursday, June 24, 2010, in the Gove County Medical Center at Quinter, at the age of 56.


As a young child, Don and his family resided in Grainfield where he attended elementary school, and graduated from Wheatland High School in 1971. In 1973, he earned an associates degree from Colby Community College. He then worked for the Kansas Department of Transportation from 1973 to 1987.


On May 16, 1981, Don was united in marriage to Linda Kay Heier in Park. They made their home on a farm south of Park and he became a full time farmer after his father's passing in 1987.

Don later completed the Residential Electrician Course from North Central Technical College in Hays and started operating his own company known as Gillespie Electric. He enjoyed wiring and helping others in between his farming duties.


Those left to mourn his passing are his wife, Linda, of Park; his sister, Patricia 'Patsy' Mendenhall and husband, Terry, of Gove; and many nieces and nephews.

His parents and a sister, Karan Kay Gillespie preceded him in death.

Don had a huge heart and his love for animals and people, especially children, was evident when he supplied candy and popsicles to the school children. He treasured the smiles on their faces. His greatest attribute was his sense of humor and no one was exempt from his joking and teasing. In his spare time, Don enjoyed reading and watching history shows.

Memorials are suggested to the Grainfield City Library, Sacred Heart Church or Sacred Heart Cemetery Fund and can be sent in care of Schmitt Funeral Home, 901 S Main, Quinter, KS 67752.

Visitation for Don will be held 5:00-7:30 PM Monday, June 28, 2010 at Schmitt Funeral Home in Quinter. KS with vigil service at 7:30.

Services will be at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, June 29, 2010 in Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Park, KS.