Ralph Gillespie

Ralph Edward Gillespie, 73, of Shelby, MT, died unexpectedly on March 23rd, 2026. He was born November 16th, 1952, to Richard and Helen (Sewald) Gillespie in Kalispell, MT. They later moved to the family farmhouse Northeast of Kevin.

After attending Mountain View Elementary in a one room school house, Ralph graduated from North Toole County High School in Sunburst in 1971. In high school Ralph spent his time working on the family farm and causing mayhem with his friends. He then went on to get his Master Welder Certificate at a trade school in Denver. Ralph returned to Kalispell where he met his wife, Linda. He sold Kirby Vacuums for a few years and then went on to be the manager of Payless shoes for 3 years between Kalispell & Missoula.

He married Linda Olson, the love of his life, in Kalispell on May 14th, 1983 and they raised Linda’s 3 children: Tammy, Todd and Melissa. They returned home in 1985 where he worked as an Oilfield Pumper for 38 years and retired from FX Drilling in March 2023.

Ralph was an avid book reader. Especially his favorite series, Harry Potter. You could find him watching reruns of Gunsmoke and the occasional John Wayne movie. In the summer you would find Ralph at his happiest camping with Linda up in Apgar. He also enjoyed taking their dog Max for car rides.

Of all Ralph’s adventures and achievements, he was most proud of being a grandfather. Spending time with his grandchildren meant the world to him and he loved watching them grow. He was always quick with a funny joke or a smart remark.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Helen Gillespie and his brother Danny Gillespie.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Linda; Children, Tammy (Keven) Peltier, Todd (Amanda) Howell, Melissa Howell; Siblings, Wanda Boswell, Barbara (Gary) Harmon, Joe Gillespie and Caroline Gillespie; 14 Grandchildren, 8 Great Grandchildren; Several Nieces and Nephews; and extended family of friends, too numerous to name.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, April 1; at 3pm at Asper Funeral Home. With closing at Mountain View Cemetery. Reception to follow at the Mint Bar.