Charles GILLESPIE

Charles “Chuck” Gillespie of Lake Havasu City, AZ passed away July 8, 2009 at the age of 81 years old. He was born in Star City, West Virginia on September 10, 1927. At about 13 years of age he moved to Long Beach, California with his Mother, Alley Smith and younger brother Don. He attended Poly High School and worked odd jobs helping his mother pay the rent who worked as a waitress. During his varied career Chuck has worked as a factory worker, machinist, and mechanic. He has always had an uncanny knack for fixing anything mechanical. At about 20 years old Chuck joined the Merchant Marines and after his training he suffered a broken back at 2l years old while riding his motorcycle to work, consequently suffering lifelong pain from his accident. He married, had three sons, Chuck “Butch”, Terry, and Jon who were his pride and joy. Chuck worked in the construction industry for 30 years as an operating engineer, operating heavy equipment and grade checking, working his way up to Foreman and Superintendent.In the 60’s Chuck took a McCulloch Champagne Flight to Lake Havasu City, bought 2 lots in town. Then after having to retire in 1978 due to heart bypass surgery, Chuck came to Lake Havasu, built a home, bought and sold properties. He loved boating and cruising in his RV. It has been his passion with many trips to the desert, riding off road quads and dune buggies. All these types of machines do break down and Chuck could always repair his machines and every one else’s too. That’s why he is also affectionately known as “McGyver”. He is most proud though of having seven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. He has acquired many nick names by his kids…..Grandpa, G-Pa, Fat ‘ol Man, Papasan and “The Man, The Myth, The Legend”. Chuck had been affiliated with the Elks, was a charter member of the Eagles, also a former treasurer of the Footprinters. Chuck was a collector of all things mechanical including many Hot Rod and Custom Cars. He was a member of the Outcasts and Nostalgics car clubs and the Roamers R.V. club. He was a member of the American Legion Post #81. A celebration of Chuck’s life will be held at the Eagles Aerie #4299 on Saturday, July 11, 2009 at 11:00 AM.Donations may be made in his name to the Heart Association of Lake Havasu, PO Box 1410, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86405.Thoughts and condolences may be submitted to the family at www.lietz-frazefuneralhome.comArrangements were placed under the care of Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home & Crematory.