Dr. Paul D. Gillespie

Paul Gillespie, 87, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, November 3, 2024.

 Paul Duane Gillespie was born November 15, 1936, to Charles and Lorna (Ulsness) Gillespie. He was raised in Fordville, ND, where he described his youth as idyllic small town living, discovering his love of nature in the woods surrounding the Forrest River. He graduated from high school in 1954 and was united on marriage to Lois Ridgway in 1955. Paul attended the University of North Dakota and the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. Following his graduation in 1962, he, Lois and their young family made their home in Grand Forks where he practiced dentistry for 35 years.

Following his retirement in 1997, Paul and Lois split their time between Grand Forks and their Lake of the Woods cabin where Paul was happiest catching walleyes, golfing, and spending time with family and friends.

 Paul was an avid outdoorsman and, in addition to fishing, he enjoyed many big game and bird hunting trips. Paul was also a loyal supporter of UND and rarely missed a Sioux Hockey or football game.

 Paul is survived by his wife of nearly 70 years, Lois; his three children, Vaughn Gillespie, Steve (Lyn) Gillespie, and Laura (Jon) Raymond, all of Grand Forks; seven grandchildren, Lisa (Bo) Frize, Christine (Justin) Hill, Aaron Gillespie, Meghan Gillespie, Dan Raymond, Will Raymond and Mark Raymond; five great grandchildren, Lucas Frize, Kate Frize, Lauren Frize, Grace Hill and baby boy Hill due in December; his brother and best friend, Chuck (Marge) Gillespie and several nieces and nephews.

 Paul was preceded in death by his parents; his aunt, Dorothy Vangsness; and his beloved terriers, Molly, Rosie, and Clarabelle.

 Memorials are suggested to the Circle of Friends Humane Society, the American Diabetes Association, or the charity of your choice.

A public visitation will be held from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM Friday, November 8, 2024 at Amundson Funeral Home, Grand Forks. A private family prayer service will follow.