Garrettsville – The Garrettsville community was saddened by the recent loss Dale Gillespie, owner of the Save 4 Store, who passed unexpectedly at his home on July 17th. According to Pam Kelley, who worked with Dale for 38 years at the Save 4 Store, Dale was, “very generous to the community, and tried to help everyone who asked.” Kelley explained. “He was asked a lot, and he always tried to help; it was important to him, because the community always supported him.”
A long-time supporter of area kids, Gillespie donated school supplies and backpacks, gift cards for countless school and community fundraisers, and even sponsored a Hot Stove team. “He was just an all-around nice guy.”
Dale graduated from the University of Akron with a Bachelors Degree in Accounting, and worked as an accountant at Matco Tools. In 1981, Dale purchased the Save 4 Store in Garrettsville, where he spent the last 38 years. He lived in Ravenna. Dale loved spending time with his family and doting on his seven grandchildren. According to Kelley, Dale’s children Brian, Lisa, and Greg will be taking over the Save 4 Store, a place where they each worked while growing up.
Bruce Abraham from Charles Automotive has known Dale for the past 25 years, and noted how much of an asset Dale has been to the local community. “He helped so many young people with their first jobs,” Abraham noted. “His store is a nice asset for the village — not a box store, but a place where people know you.” Abraham noted the importance of having a small-town business where kids can stop after school, and locals can come to fuel up or grab a quick item. “He did a lot for the community, and was always willing to lend a hand.”
After he passed at home unexpectedly, Kelley noted, “a lot of sad customers were shocked to learn of the loss.”
His family noted their appreciation to the village of Garrettsville’s support their father’s business for the last 38 years, and their gratitude to Pam Kelley her support of their dad and his business during that time.
In lieu of flowers during the recent funeral, the family suggested a donation in their dad’s name to a local non-profit group, J. A. Garfield Schools, or the Garrettsville Police Department as fitting ways to remember the community-minded man who did so much for those lucky enough to know him.
Even in death, Dale continues to help the local community.
