Aloyse Gillespie

Aloyse Tighe Gillespie, age 97, of Grand Rapids, MI went to be with the Lord on Friday, March 20, 2020. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Irving F. Gillespie, Sr. (2010). Aloyse will be lovingly remembered by her children, Michael, Patricia Rinard (David), Kathleen (Debra Shore), Irv Jr., Casey (Nancy); grandchildren, Megan Rinard, Gena Walters (Ian), Colin Gillespie, Stephen Gillespie, and Meredith Gillespie; great-grandchild, Eli Walters; one sister, Margaret Keating, Bloomfield Hills MI; and many nieces and nephews.

She cherished the memories of her brothers and sister who passed before her, John (Jack) Tighe, Thomas Tighe, Robert Tighe, and Patricia Tighe Merkert.

Aloyse was born in Detroit Mi, to Genevieve and John Tighe. Her early Catholic education was strongly influenced by the sisters of the Society of the Sacred Heart (RSCJ) while she attended Sacred Heart Academy in Detroit MI, and later by the Ursuline sisters while attending Brescia Hall College for Women in London, Ontario.

Aloyse met her husband on a blind date, and after marrying him, moved to Grand Haven MI. They were a fun, out-going couple who loved to play golf, bridge, and enjoyed large extended family get-togethers.  They especially enjoyed their yearly travels to locations as remote as the Far East, Europe, South America, and Africa, and as close to home as their much-loved Harbor Springs MI countryside.

In 1981, after raising her children, Aloyse and her son, Irv Jr. had the opportunity to buy Vanclaires, an interior design company. She had the joy of working with him as they continued the fine design the firm was known for since 1925.

Aloyse was active in many organizations, but had a particular passion for St. John’s Home, Grand Rapids MI.  She volunteered, advised, and fundraised for the organization for over 40 years.

By any standard, Aloyse was a dedicated wife, parent and friend, loyal and steadfast in her relationships, and readily described as a woman who relished life. Her faith was the center of her life. The gratitude Aloyse continuously expressed for the blessings in her life was a quality admired by those who knew and loved her. She will be dearly missed.  

 Memorial contributions may be made in Aloyse’s name to: Clark Foundation, St. John’s Home, or IKUS (formerly Indian Trails Camp).

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