Emerson Dean Gillespie, of Elyria , passed away Sunday September 22, 2024 at his home following a battle with cancer.

Dean was born November 9, 1957 to Donna (Savage) and Emerson Martin. He grew up in Elyria, before joining the United States Army. He proudly served his country as a Military Police Officer and a Combat Engineer, having multiple posts both in the United States and Europe. After leaving active duty he continued to serve in the Army Reserves.

He was employed as a Corrections Officer at Lorain County Correctional Institution, where he was elected Union President. He then went to work as an Adjudicator for the Department of Defense. Prior to his recent retirement, he was employed as a Landman for energy exploration companies.

Dean met the love of his life when he was in high school. They dated for a time before life took them in separate directions, but they reunited and celebrated 40 years of marriage. He was a proud father who taught his children how to ride a bike, throw a baseball, and how to catch a fish. He loved his children unconditionally.

Dean enjoyed spending time with his friends and family, whether camping , boating or watching local sports. He cheered on the Guardians and never gave up on the Browns (there's always next year). His laughter was contagious and he made friends wherever he went. He looked forward to his poker nights, even though most nights he just donated to the pot. He was an avid golfer who was on the links with his friends as often as possible.

He was preceded in death by his mother Donna and father John Gillespie, and siblings Marlowe Gillespie, Tom Gillespie, Peggy Mackay and Bryan Gillespie.

Dean is survived by devoted wife Susan (nee-Stephen); children Danielle (Gary), Jeremy (Jenny) and Kristina, as well as grandchildren Elizabeth, Dominic, Jackson and Emma. He leaves behind siblings Jack Gillespie, Marlene Hamilton, Linda Gillespie, Shirley Sharp and Brock Bryan.

Military Honors will be at 9:45 a.m. Friday October 4, 2024 at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery 10175 Rawiga Road Rittman, Ohio (Please meet at the entrance). A Memorial Visitation will follow from 1:00-3:00 p.m. at the Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd. (at State Rt. 57), Elyria, with a service to follow at 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society or to the Ohio Veteran's Affairs.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com