Obituary of Diana Gillespie

Diana Christie Gillespie (née Clark) After a courageous struggle with Alzheimer's disease, Diana died on Tuesday, November 23rd, 2010 in her 87th year. Daughter of Christie T. and Gwyneth G. Clark (née Shannon). Beloved wife of the Honourable Alastair W. Gillespie for 63 years. Loving mother of Cynthia Webb (Ian) of Toronto and Ian Gillespie (Lynn Laflamme) of Ottawa. Proud Gran of Vanessa (Chip Greene), Katie (Nick Gambarotta) and David Webb, Meredith (Patrick Glinski) and Ian Gillespie. Great Gran to Sarah and Michael Gambarotta. She will be sadly missed by her brothers Gavin (Shirley) of Thornbury and Ian (Nancy) of Ottawa and her sister Sheila of Toronto. Diana was a wonderfully supportive and effective political wife. An outspoken and concerned Canadian nationalist, she was an informed debater on many topics. She had a love for life and knowledge and was reputed to be one of Toronto's most beautiful women. She was a keen skier, winning club medals in her late 60's and an accomplished tennis player. Gran amazed her grandchildren with handstands and cartwheels on the lawn well into her 70's. She enjoyed many hours as a docent in the early days of the Gardiner Museum and was passionate about ceramics. A special thank you to the staff at Belmont House in Toronto and in particular to Rose and Gaby, her personal care givers, for the extraordinary care and love they provided her. At Diana's request, there will be a private family service and cremation. Friends are invited to join the family in sharing memories of Diana's life at the BADMINTON AND RACQUET CLUB, 25 St. Clair Avenue West on Monday, December 20th from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Alzheimer's Society would be greatly appreciated. Condolences and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.