Rawhide Celebrates Founders' 50th Wedding Anniversary |
July 29, 2007 |  On Sunday, July 29, Rawhide Boys Ranch hosted the 50th Wedding Anniversary of John and Jan Gillespie, Rawhide founders. The Gillespies established the Rawhide program in 1965 and a year later were joined by former Green Bay Packers quarterback Bart Starr and his wife, Cherry. What began as one home with eight boys has grown into a nationally-recognized residential care facility, featuring seven boys homes, a state-of-the-art high school, and numerous work experience facilities. Rawhide has been a home to more than 2,000 boys because of the vision and sacrifice of John and Jan Gillespie. They modeled a stable marriage, loving home, and unconditional love to troubled boys who rarely experienced this in their lives. Over 350 boys personally witnessed this commitment while John and Jan lived with them as their loving houseparents at Rawhide.
In recognition of their golden wedding anniversary, the Gillespies designated that all gifts were directed toward the Rawhide Founders Endowment, established in their honor. This fund creates an opportunity for more young men to attend Rawhide. After the event John Gillespie commented, “We are so proud to visit and see the high standards of how the buildings and grounds are kept. And the [Rawhide] staff and guys always look sharp–like the professionals they are. Every one of the guys are a “cut above” other teens in appearance and attitude. They make a great impression on everyone they meet.”
The festivities began at 2 p.m., including a social hour, tours of Rawhide, and youth activities. At 4 p.m. the Gillespies renewed their vows, arriving at the ceremony in a horse-drawn carriage. All of the original wedding party, with the exception of one attendant, was present. The ceremony was officiated by Greg Sampson, a former Rawhide staffer and current pastor. A medley of ‘50’s songs was performed by Sue Gillespie (daughter-in-law) and Ruth Hardy (granddaughter). Jacob and McKenzie Hardy (great-grandchildren) served as honorary ring bearer and flower girl. Jan Gillespie was escorted by sons Steve and Tim Gillespie. “The Lord’s Prayer” was performed in song by Jeff Bruenning. John Gillespie surprised Jan with his own vocal and harmonica accompaniment recording to their favorite song “Could I Have This Dance for the Rest of My Life.” A special dance for the couple followed, after which words of affirmation were given by family, friends, alumni, and Rawhide staff. A picnic-style dinner concluded the event with over 400 family, friends, and guests in attendance.
Located outside of New London, Wisconsin, Rawhide Boys Ranch emphasizes a faith-based traditional family environment and serves at-risk and court-referred young men. Their mission is to inspire and equip at-risk teenage boys to become responsible young men through family-centered care, treatment, and education. Rawhide is largely supported by donations of cars, boats, campers, and financial gifts. Learn more about Rawhide by calling (920) 982-6100 or visiting the website at www.rawhide.org.
Photo Caption: John and Jan Gillespie on their wedding day on June 15, 1957 (top), and as they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary July 29, 2007, at Rawhide Boys Ranch (bottom). |
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