Edward Michael Gillern III's Obituary
Edward Michael "Mike" Gillern III, aged 73, passed away on July 15, 2024, in Fort Myers, Florida. Born on August 22, 1950, in Baltimore, Maryland, Mike was a spirited individual with a memorable presence, known for his humor and love for life despite significant health challenges in his later years.
Growing up in Fort Howard, MD on Todd’s Farm with his parents and five sisters, Mike acquired a love for dogs, nature and the water, which he embraced throughout his life. In 1969, he joined the United States Army, where he proudly served in the Vietnam War from 1969 to 1971, training search and rescue dogs. His military service was a defining period of his life, contributing to his strong sense of duty and resilience.
Following his military service, Mike embarked on a career in the automotive industry. After initially working at Peterbilt Motors Company in Baltimore, he moved to Fort Myers in 1983, where he later founded his own business, EMG Motors/Car Sales, which he operated until his retirement in January 2024.
Mike's personal life was filled with joy and challenges. He was a master storyteller with a keen memory for detail, often sharing tales of his adventures on the Orange River, where he lived. His stories of close encounters with nature, including a memorable tale of a wayward alligator looking for trouble in his backyard and surviving Hurricane Ian about to destroy his home with violent wind and rain, were a testament to his adventurous spirit and hardiness. His special friends included his motorcycle buddies of Buckingham and he shared stories of their adventures on motorcycle trips to Key West, Leesburg and remote parts of Florida.
He is survived by his devoted partner, Judi Belida, who was his steadfast support through his health struggles, along with his beloved German Shepherds, Abby and LuLu. Mike is also survived by his son, Travis Gillern, and his grandchildren Alexis, Natalie, Christian, and Gianna. His family also included Judi's children, Andrea and Drew Rogers, and Jason and Allie Chiklakis and their children, with whom he shared many memorable family events and milestones. Mike leaves behind his loving sisters, Susie Pompa from Baltimore, MD; Julie Gillern from College Park, MD; Mary Bilik, from Pittsfield, MA; and Jane Cross from Easton, MD; his brothers-in-law, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jane and Edward Michael Gillern Jr., and his sister, Stacey Cumberland.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Vietnam Veterans of America or the Gulf Coast Humane Society, reflecting his love for his fellow veterans and animals.
The service previously scheduled for Mike on October 26th has been postponed due to hurricane Milton. Please check back for the rescheduled date.
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