In loving memory of

George H. Spear
June 20, 2013

George Harry Spear, age 85, of 617 Garden Court, died Wednesday (June 19, 2013) at 11:29 p.m. in Blessing Hospital.

He was born November 5, 1927 in Chicago, Illinois the son of Harry G. and Suzanne Strban Spear. On August 25, 1951 he married Charlotte Hansen in St. James Lutheran Church. She preceded him in death on Nov. 2, 2007.

After high school graduation, George served in the U. S. Army during World War II. In 1953 he graduated from Valparaiso University and worked for U. S. Steel Corporation in Management training until he enrolled in St. Louis College of Mortuary Science. He graduated in 1955 and came to Quincy where he became a partner in the Hansen-Spear Funeral Home in 1962.

In his early years in Quincy, George was actively involved in many Jaycee projects and received the Distinguished Service Award in 1962. He also was very active with the Y.M.C.A. in membership campaigns and building campaigns.   He was a member of St. James Lutheran Church where he had served on the church council and was head usher for many years. He was an active member of the Quincy Rotary Club where he was a Paul Harris Fellow and a Rotary Benefactor, and was a member of the Quincy Country Club. He was a member of Quincy Blue Devil Sports Hall of Fame and the Illinois Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame. He had been chairman of the trustees of Quincy Athletic Development Association and was an avid QHS Blue Devil basketball fan, having been a long time member and former chair of the Thanksgiving Basketball Tournament Committee.

George was a former member of the Quincy School Board, the Salvation Army Advisory Board and was the First Chairman of the Salvation Army Home Town Endowment Campaign.  He served six years on the Blessing Hospital Board, the facility that took such wonderful care of him last week at the E.R., the ICU and the Cardiovascular Unit.   He was also a former member of South Side Commercial Club, the Adams County Chapter of the American Cancer Society where he chaired the Crusade in 1962. He was also actively involved with the United Way and served on the Board of Directors. He was on the Board of Directors of the Chamber of Commerce and was vice-president of GREDF. In 2004, George and Charlotte received the Mississippi Valley Council of Boy Scouts of America Distinguished Citizen Award, and he was honored by the Girls Scouts in 2010 for community service. If some organization needed funds, George would either give it or get it. His big heart finally gave out.

George and Charlotte enjoyed traveling to Chicago to see his beloved Chicago Cubs, although dinner at Gibsons afterwards, where he was considered a 'local' was just as special. Dinner out anywhere was the norm for George and Charlotte, and they dearly loved all of the waiters and waitresses who took such good care of them.

George and Charlotte also enjoyed the winter months in Bonita Springs, Florida where they vacationed, first for short periods and more recently during November and the three winter months.  George was a "Rotary Regular" at the Rotary Club of Bonita Springs, regularly attended services and volunteered folding bulletins at Hope Lutheran Church, and spent countless hours soaking up the warm Florida sunshine on Bonita Beach.

Survivors include 3 sons; John D. (Lisa) Spear of Bonita Springs, FL, Dr. Robert M. (Jan) Spear of Coronado, CA, and Jeffrey G. (Theresa) Spear of Quincy; 4 grandsons, William A. (Dr. Kristin) Spear of Quincy, Capt. Nicholas J. (Sarah) Spear of Sacramento, CA, Nicholas R. Spear and Matthew G. Spear of Coronado, CA; 1 step granddaughter, Jessica Eaton of Chicago, IL; 2 step grandsons, Zachary Eaton and Joshua (Casey) Eaton, all of Bonita Springs, FL; 2 step great grandchildren, Kylie and Madison Eaton, both of Bonita Springs, FL; 3 brothers, Clarence (Carol) Spear, John (Sherry) Spear, and Louis Spear, all of LaPorte, IN; 2 sisters, Anne (Bob) Salay of Cadillac, MI, and Mary Jane (Jim) Goad of Fort Worth, TX, and his special friend, Monica Wickliffe of Bonita Springs, FL. He was also preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Capt. William Spear and James Spear, and a sister Sue Brown.

Services: Monday (July 1, 2013) at 11 a.m.St. James Lutheran Church with the Rev. Marlin Rempfer and Rev. Mike Fieberkorn officiating.

Burial will be in Greenmount Cemetery.

Visitation: Sunday (June 30, 2013) from 1 until 5 pm at the Hansen-Spear Funeral Home.

Memorials: The Community Foundation of the Quincy Area

Hansen-Spear Funeral Directors are in charge of arrangements.

www.hansenspear.com

 

 

Tributes

marian dirscherl wrote on Jan 5, 2014:

"So sorry to have not been advised of George's passing until now. Please accept my sincere sympathy with your loss. I so enjoyed spending time with both George and Charlotte in Bonita. The family is in my prayers."

Clark & Jan Pulliam wrote on Aug 21, 2013:

"Jeff & Terry, I guess better late than never. I just read your father's obituary in the IFDA E-bulletin . I didn't know him but knew him through Jeff and the grandsons skiing in Colorado. Seems like a hundred years ago that we were so young and vibrant, vicarious and care free. I will pass this sad news along to Jan and we will make a donation to the IFDA scholarship fund in George's memory. Best wishes and you travel on. Pleasant memories. Clark"

Jack Curry wrote on Jul 3, 2013:

"Nearly 50 years ago in November of 1963, an accident near the American Legion hall on IL Rt. 61 took the lives of two Ursa girls and five days later my grandfather died of injuries sustained in the accident. George Spear stepped forward and helped my family keep the Curry Funeral Home of Mendon operating during that difficult period. His help was appreciated by our family then and for all the years since."

JIM & BETTY MCGINN wrote on Jul 3, 2013:

"GEORGE WAS A GOOD KIND MAN, WILL MISS HIM AT THE THANKSGIVING TOURNAMENT MEETINGS OUR PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS ARE WITH THE ,FAMILY"

Nancy & Chris Keefer wrote on Jul 2, 2013:

"John, Lisa and family, I was so saddened to hear of George's passing. To say we are shocked would be an understatement. To me, George is just larger than life. I will always remember his love of life and how he was always so welcoming to me. I know this will be a big void in your lives and hope that the wonderful memories will ease the pain. Love and hugs to you."

Mike Moyers wrote on Jul 1, 2013:

"I know of no one who could keep up with George Spear. He was a tireless advocate for whatever the cause and was the best front man I've ever seen. A smile, and a kind word were standard equipment. And with George in the room, you knew you were going to have some fun. I miss him now as I've missed Charlotte these past few years, but know they're together enjoying a glass of wine overlooking a sunset. George was simply the best. My thoughts are with the family and the community. Mike Moyers and family."

Jacki Lyden & family wrote on Jun 30, 2013:

"Will, Arlene, Karon Bloo & I all had the pleasure of knowing George, and Arlene danced with him under a tent, beside a pool, on her 80th birthday. On every visit to Florida, we could depend upon George to be of good cheer and having a lovely time. He was giving, caring gentleman, and we are sure he will be deeply missed by the generations he has served in Quincy, the Gem of the Mississippi. George was the original bon vivant, and we are raising a glass to his memory which will live on. Blessings to all his loved ones, esp John & Lisa."

Tim & Diane Tappe wrote on Jun 30, 2013:

"Our deepest condolences to the whole family. We have known George and Charlotte pretty much our whole lives always hanging out and travelling to basketball games with my Mom and Dad and El and Donna, . Whenever I saw him I had to go up and shake his hand( we had a secret handshack for years). He will be missed by alot of people but he is where he would want to be and that is with Charlotte once again. Our Prayers are with you."

Terry Buehler wrote on Jun 30, 2013:

"George was a man I admired and deeply respected and a good friend. He will be greatly missed. My deepest sympathy to the entire Spear Family."

Stephanie Kissinger wrote on Jun 30, 2013:

"John - I only had the privilege of knowing your dad through Rotary, and am better for it. He was such a nice, upbeat guy and always had a smile going on. It was always a nice surprise to see him at Rotary. He led an impressive life, and leaves a great legacy. God bless you and your family. Warm thoughts sent your way from me, Steven and my mom, Cissy."

Alex & Suzette Valle wrote on Jun 29, 2013:

"Bob and Jan, We want you to know we are thinking of you and your family today. We are sending you our thoughts and prayers all the way from your hometown in Coronado. As "Brother Valle," what George used to call Alex, already said, George was a rockin' guy! Hugs to you and your family."

Lee and Terry Mays wrote on Jun 28, 2013:

"Dear John, Bob, Jeff and families, We were deeply saddened to hear of George's passing. George was the most loving and giving person that you would ever meet. George was a very special friend of the Mays family. We will miss him. Love to all."

Shirley Sawyer wrote on Jun 27, 2013:

"Dear Jeff, Theresa, and Family, I know what a sad time this is for you. While I didn't know your Dad personally, I know he was a man of integrity. Please accept my condolences at a time when no words can comfort you but you know you are greatly thought about."

Cheryl Morrell wrote on Jun 27, 2013:

"I was saddened to hear of George Spear?s passing. I considered him a dear friend and enjoyed spending time with him and Monica in Bonita Springs. There love and care for each-other was obvious?as was their zest for life. George was never at loss for words regarding his love for Charlotte, his great pride in his family, Hansen-Spear, and the great town of Quincy, IL. George ? you will be dearly missed! Cheryl ?"

Zig Brown wrote on Jun 26, 2013:

"Dear Spear family, My thoughts and prayers are with you. Talked to George when he was out for lunch several weeks ago. I will always remember him as a kind gentleman, whose love for his wife was an example for all."

Barb (Barbie) Gustison wrote on Jun 26, 2013:

"I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Spear's passing, but happy to know that he will be reunited with his love, Mrs. Spear. I had the great pleasure of getting to know both of them while working at the country club. I always looked forward to seeing them...I enjoyed our talks, their humor, their hugs and their happiness. I have such great memories of them, and can't help but smile when thinking back on those times. Even after leaving the club when I would see Mr. Spear in town, he always remembered me...he would give me a giant hug, introduce me to whomever he was with, and we would chat. Mr. Spear was not just someone that I waited on, he was a friend. He truly did have a giant heart, and that will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with the family..."

Krista Sullivan wrote on Jun 25, 2013:

"Deepest sympathy to the Spear family. George was a wonderful person and an avid Blue Devils supporter. When my mother-in-law was seriously ill, he offered Jim tickets and a ride to the super sectional game. He knew how much Jim loved the Blue Devils and that we had relinquished our season tickets when we moved away. It touched Jim deeply. That was the kind of person George was. He gave so much to the community in so many ways. He will be sorely missed. Again deepest sympathy."

Becky {Stegall}Moore wrote on Jun 25, 2013:

"So sorry to hear of his passing..i Spoke with him about a yr ago and as we got into the conversation, he knew my family from LaPorte,In...We shared our memories of the area..But, what really sticks w/ me about this wonderful man was when I was there for a funeral and I was soooo trying to keep my tears together.You could hear my mumbles in conversation to this family that lost their loved one...I shook his hand and thanked him and his family for such a beautiful service...He gave me a hug and said "it's ok to cry, it cleanses the soul"....I will never forget his words that day....He was a wonderful person and that day, he was the only person that made me smile w/ tears flowing........"

Evelyn McDowell wrote on Jun 25, 2013:

"As I read through all these memories of George and Charlotte my main thought was what a wonderful legacy they have left behind. My sincere sympathy goes out to the family, for their loss is great. If ever there was a life to celebrate it was George's (and Charlotte's). May your family take comfort in your faith and in the knowledge that he was loved, cherished and will be missed by many!"

Meg (Shade) Rogers wrote on Jun 25, 2013:

"Dear Spear Family, I am so sorry to learn of George's passing. I enjoyed working with George through my employment at the Quincy Area Chamber of Commerce many years ago. Quincy has lost a great ambassador for the city and a wonderful man. My deepest sympathy to your entire family. Sincerely, Meg (Shade) Rogers."

Judy Hunter wrote on Jun 25, 2013:

"Dear Spear Family, So sorry to hear of your loss. I remember serving with George in Rotary. I have always appreciated his kindness when my parents passed away in Quincy. He was kind and helpful. My thoughts are with you and I know all of Quincy will miss George. Sincerely Judy Hunter"

Heather Thomson wrote on Jun 25, 2013:

"I always loved seeing George in the mornings at the Bonita Springs YMCA. He would usually come early in the morning and when he was finished he would come and sit at the front lobby with me and we would chat over coffee and the newspaper. I was in college at the time, so he always had interest about my future. I enjoyed hearing stories about his life, and he liked to hear my ideas about stories I wanted to write. He even sent me birthday cards and a graduation card. He was just that kind of person - thoughtful, funny, and kind to a fault. I am glad to have found such a special friend in this world as George. He will be sorely missed. My love and prayers are with your family. With love & friendship, Heather Thomson"

Sally Poole wrote on Jun 24, 2013:

"I will deeply miss George. He was always kind and thoughtful. I loved visiting with him at Rotary events when we volunteered together. Our last event together was serving food at the library's summer reading program in June. George was always fun. He brought a copy of the 1920's Rotary Guide and we poured over it. Quincy has lost a great man, a good friend and a strong community leader."

Paul K. Geers wrote on Jun 24, 2013:

"Dear Jeff and family, what a man, what a great guy your father was. Meeting him 49 years ago when I was serving mass at Soldiers home and just last year at a funeral, we were laughing about some funny times at the old chapel and people we knew. Both your mom and dad will always be remembered in my heart"

Kris Hanks wrote on Jun 24, 2013:

"Dear Spear Family, I was deeply saddened to hear about your loss. George was just one heck of a guy! The Spear and Hanks? families shared many wonderful times together, and we will all cherish those memories! As a former Blue Devil cheerleader, I always felt that I held up one half of the QHS gym and George the other half! He was one of the all time best basketball team supporters. His enthusiasm never waned and I?m sure many a referee also remembers George! Both George and Charlotte contributed so much to the community and were role models for many of us growing up in Quincy. They had spunk, tenacity and drive. Plus, they were just so much fun to be around! Our hearts go out to you. With love and respect, Kris Hanks"

Linda ( Lepper) Cummings wrote on Jun 24, 2013:

"I was rather teary eyed writing my condolence about George. I certainly messed up on the spelling. All I know is that sometime in my life I went from calling him Mr. Spear to calling him George. He never stopped calling me Linda Lou from the day I went to St. James Kindergarden round up with his son, John, to the last time I saw him at age 60 ! I all miss him in my life and miss never being called the affectionate name of Linda Lou. My real middle name is Suzanne, but it never mattered . I loved being Linda Lou when I was with George !"

Bradley Brown wrote on Jun 24, 2013:

"I am going to miss George a great deal. I would see George from time to time and each time he made feel as if no time had passed. I know he is going to be missed dearly and I feel fortunate for the time I have spent with him and his family. Chicago has a special place in my heart that both George and I will always share. My thoughts are with George and the entire Spear family. Sincerely, Bradley Brown"

David Karlson II wrote on Jun 24, 2013:

"Jeff, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. After all the help you have giving to so many during their time of loss we are all behind you in your time of loss. May the lord bless you with comfort. I have heard many stories from my dad of your family and my family knowing each other for awhile. Your dad was a wonderful person who will be missed by the entire Quincy area."

Richard and Fern Heitholt wrote on Jun 23, 2013:

"Dear John, Dr. Bob, Jeff and families, Quincy was fortunate that your dad (and mother) returned to Quincy. Their involvement and support of so many worthwhile causes was tremendous. We hope God's Blessings and your vivid memories bring comfort at this time. Best wishes!"

Azad and Rita Tayyab wrote on Jun 23, 2013:

"George had a very special place in our hearts and will be sorely missed. Going out for dinners together was a mutually enjoyable occasion. His cheery line was always:" Hey kids, time to go get our fix." His wit and humor never failed, neither did his wisdom and inspiration. To know and be around him has been a privilege. Family, please accept our heartfelt condolences."

Gary Schluckebier wrote on Jun 22, 2013:

"To The Spear Family, I have many special memories of George & Charolette over many years of knowing them. Your dad, George, was a huge help & impression on me as a young man trying to make my way on the path of life. You, the Sons, were left with a great heritage not only from your parents, but also from your grandparents, Walter & Helen Hansen also. God be with you all as I offer my condolences to you in remembrance of a great man, George Spear. Gary"

Scott & Cindy Spear and family wrote on Jun 22, 2013:

"Uncle George was a joy and comfort to so many throughout his life. I will never forget one Spear family reunion. As we were out on one of Uncle Clarence's famous hay rides, Uncle George stopped everything in the middle of the vineyard. He jumped off of the wagon to pick a bunch of grapes from the vine, exclaiming as he climbed back in that he'd just found the perfect bunch and just needed to share it with all of us! We will all miss his stories, his smile, his advice, and his hugs. He will be greatly missed by brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and also great-nieces and great-nephews. May God comfort all of George's family and friends during this difficult time. With our love, Scott, Cindy, Ryan, Andrew, and Rachel Spear"

Scott & Cindy Spear and family wrote on Jun 22, 2013:

"Uncle George was a joy and comfort to so many throughout his life. I will never forget one particular Spear family reunion. As we were out on one of Uncle Clarence's famous hay rides, Uncle George stopped everything in the middle of the vineyard. He jumped off the wagon to pick a bunch of grapes from the vine, exclaiming as he climbed back in that he'd found the perfect bunch and just needed to share it with all of us! We will all miss his stories, his smile, his advice, and his loving hugs. He will be greatly missed by brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and also great-nieces and great-nephews. May God comfort all of George's family and friends during this difficult time. With our love, Scott, Cindy, Ryan, Andrew, and Rachel Spear"

Chuck and Brenda Kanoy and family wrote on Jun 21, 2013:

"Spear Family: Our sincere condolences to all of you as we will all mourn our loss of George in our lives. We will remember the interesting conversations, endless enthusiasm, kind words and great stories about Valparaiso. Celebrate a life well lived in the service to others as called upon by the good Lord and willingly accepted by him. Remember the many fond memories and fascinating stories while we all will mourn not hearing just one more. The Lord has another servant who has come home and we can all give praise to Him for that. Love you all, Chuck, Brenda, Steven, Sara, Ben and Blake"

Mohamed and Zakiah Ali wrote on Jun 21, 2013:

"The world has lost a very special man. I have such beautiful memories of George and the way he always spoke to me. A kinder, more gentle and gracious person is hard to come by. My deepest sympathy to the entire family. Peace, Zakiah and Mohamed."

Ken and Evelyn Shea wrote on Jun 21, 2013:

"Although we never met Mr. George Spear, I have had the honor of working with his son, Dr. Bob Spear at Rady Children's Hospital for the past 24 years. He is an amazing man, father, husband, physician and friend. After reading all these comments about Mr. Spear, I now understand why Bob is the kind of man he is. My sincere condolences to the Spear Family. "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted" Matthew 5:4."

Melody Garland wrote on Jun 21, 2013:

"Dear Spear Family, I was saddened to hear of George's passing . I always had the pleasure to wait on him and your mom Charlotte at Stipps. The Spear family has a special place in my heart always. Was always so much fun working the Christmas Party held every year at Stipps. I will forever miss Charlotte and George who both have always been nothing but SWEET to me, they always made me feel special when I saw them. George I will continue to root for the Cubs down here for you while you continue to cheer them on up in heaven. I have so many fond memories of George and Charlotte and Jeff and Teresa through the years. I am holding your family in my heart and my prayers. Sincerely Melody Garland"

Lori Shook wrote on Jun 21, 2013:

"You have our condolences. Take care. Sincerely, the Shook family"

John R. wrote on Jun 21, 2013:

"I only knew Mr. Spear through a dear friend of mine. After she told me all the good times she and her family had with George and his family, it's as if I knew him personally. The greatness this man had with his family, friends, and community will be remembered forever! My deepest condolences to George's family, friends, and the Quincy community."

Connie & Jim Balfour wrote on Jun 21, 2013:

"Heaven has received a special Man. We are so very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. As we don't know the rest of the family, we can only direct this to Jeff, Theresa & Will, George & Charlotte showed & taught such love, kindness and genuine sincerity to you as we see it in the three of you. You family really does carry on a legacy of love."

Carol/Don Leckbee wrote on Jun 21, 2013:

"Spear family, Being from Quincy,having lived on So 22.We used to see Charlotte and George walking home.If you were out in the yard they always had a moment for a hello.Once in awhile after moving to Bonita I would run into George in Walgreens .He would again, have time for a chat. In time of need he was ever so kind in getting things just the way you liked. God bless and watch over his family in their time of need ."

Jim Klene wrote on Jun 21, 2013:

"One Great Man and Family. May he Rest in peace and my condolences to his Great family."

Karen Ullery wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"I only met George once, but once was enough to see what a wonderful man he was! He truly lit up the room with his presence. My condolences to the family that was so blessed to have had him as a member!"

Susan Pierson wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"I'm glad I got to give George a hug a few weeks ago at the QSFA event. What a sweet, kind, gentle man! Charlotte will always have an impact on me, too, as she helped me understand how to deal with grief. Wonderful people who left an impact on my life and on the lives of others. You have a great family."

melanie wright wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"What a wonderful man. I loved George and Charlotte and envied their devotion to one another. I know that they are now reunited and dancing together once again - a happy image in my mind. The loss is great for Jeff, Theresa, Nick, Sarah, William and all of the family - but what a life to celebrate! George was forever kind to me and for that I am grateful. I loved my long chats with him and saw his kindness, humor and zest for life in every word. His (and Charlotte's) kindness and generosity will live on forever through the lives of those that were fortunate enough to have known them. His legacy of genuine devotion, gentleness and compassion is evident in his son Jeff and Grandsons William and Nicholas. They are blessed to have had him as an example of what a truly good man is. I am forever grateful that my daughter married a man who had such a great mentor as George Spear. God bless you all; my heart is with you."

Bobbi Bird wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"Dear John & Lisa, I did not know George very well, the only times our paths crossed was when he would join us for breakfast and Rotary fellowship at the Bonita Bay club when he would come to Bonita Springs. He always had a smile, a firm handshake and a compliment of some sort, when ever we spoke. His warmth and joy were surrounded him and touched everyone near him. I know you and your family will miss him greatly, but I'd like you to remember that I, and the rest of the Rotary Club of Bonita Springs, feel very fortunate to have been able to get to know him, even just a little bit. Sincerely, Bobbi & Henry Bird"

Lorna Foose Dempster wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"George struck me as being as gentle as he was kind. His smile lifted sorrow from many of the faces of those who had turned to him for guidance and support. The chair may be empty now but the room will always be filled with his spirit. Condolences to you all."

Terry Plummer wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"Funeral Service looses another classic Icon in its profession. On behalf of the Illinois Funeral Directors Assn. Board of Directors and Membership, we offer our sympathy to the Spear Family. May peace be with you."

Sally DalPorto wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"I have known and loved George and Charlotte my entire life and always thought of them as my second set of parents. Being George's goddaughter always made me feel special, but the fact that they both were always there for me meant the world to me and I hope they both knew it. When Charlotte would take me dress shopping for special occassions I would wear the dress until it would no longer fit and I still have them. Charlotte always knew I was in love with their 3 sons as a little girl and would only tease me a little. I know it was Charlotte who always made one of them come to my birthday party every year and I will never forget those special memories. George, Charlotte, John, Bob and Jeff always made me feel part of their family and so incredibly loved. As a little girl I was determined to marry one of their sons even though they were years older than I was. They just always took me in stride as a little girl with 3 very strong crushes. Today has been one of the worst days of my life, being the youngest child of the 6 couples who had a New Years Eve Party every 2 months that I was so lucky to attend. My mother is the last of that wonderful group who celebrated New Years Eve every other month...the Stratmans, the Jordans, the Schnacks, the Witskens, the Naubers and the Spears. I pray that someday I will be a part of a group like they had. They were all the most wonderful people in the world to me and loosing George is like loosing my dad all over again. The world will never be the same without all of them. They all were unique, loving and wonderful family. George, I will love and miss you always. Thank you for all you did for me throughout my life, for all the stories and for your loving arms around me. I love that you picked my daughter up above your head like you did me as a baby and about gave my mom a heart attack. It has been a favorite story in our families since I was born. You are also the only person who ever got away with calling me Sally Beth. I hated the name unless it came from you and then it was special like you and Charlotte. I will always love and miss you both. Thank you for everything. All my love, Sally Beth"

Cindy Henke wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"George was such a wonderful man. He was a dear friend to my father. I remember having to pull up to your funeral home to do some details for my upcoming funeral for my father. He pulled up, got out, and gave me a big hug...and genuine consoling . He was always a true gentleman, and will be truly missed by all who knew him. We are blessed to have been a part of his life. Fondly, Cindy, Dan, Katie, and Sarah"

Michelle McClinton wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"Praying for your family's strength during this trying time."

Carla Wegman wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"Jeff, Theresa, Will, Nick....I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Love you...."

Tammy Doyle wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"My sincerest sympathy to the Spear family. George will truly be missed by all who knew him. I knew George and Charlotte from my years of working at Holtschlag Florist and then at Good Samaritan Home. Heaven has received a wonderful man. Prayers to the family....."

Alison Sellers Jenkins wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"There was no better Quincy ambassador or friend. His heart was genuine and sincere. He had no expectations of others except that they treat each other with kindness. A great teacher of loyalty, friendship and courage. So sad, but can't help but smile thinking of how lucky we were to have him and Charlotte in our lives. Spear family, we love you all."

Anna Bender wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"Mr. Spear was always so sweet to me and my staff at the QCC pool. I loved seeing him come to the pool just to hang out and take an occaisional swim. The Lifeguard staff loved him and enjoyed talking to him. He was a great soul and will be missed. His family is in my prayers."

BJ (Barb Green) Towe wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"Every time I saw George, he'd call me "Barbie" and remind me of those days at Sheridan when I was just 3 or 4 years old or so. His smile would always make me smile. His happy heart would always make mine happy. What a wonderful man! He will be missed. Love to the family ...."

Charlie Martin wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"I have had the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Spear on a couple occasions. Prayers and well wishes sent to his entire family. From what I have heard of Mr Spear and what I have read, I'm sure he has made a positive impact on many lives throughout his life. God Bless."

Anne Strode wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"I have so many fond and loving memories of George and Charlotte and my deepest sympathies go out to the family. My parents, Ed and Liz Schroeder can share their place in heaven now with the Spears, watching their beloved Cubbies!!"

Ann (Witsken) Kamphaus wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"George - you were one of many "extra" dads in our lives. I'm so lucky we were able to spend the time with you. You will be greatly missed. Love Always - Ann, Sally, & Carolyn"

Mark Schlipman wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"Spear Family, I am saddened to hear of George?s death. He was a wonderful person, friend and mentor. Just last week he told our kids that he looked forward to seeing them at the pool. Please accept my deepest sympathy. My thoughts are with you all. Sincerely, Mark"

Cheryl and Ron Burtle wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"Jeff, so sorry for your loss. Our condolences to you and your family."

Julie Cross wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"I've known George and Charlotte for a very long time and you couldnt find a more genuine, loving couple. George was especially special to me from our connection when I worked at Social Security and he'd bring in clients. Whenever he'd see me out, he always had a strong, warm hug that I knew was from the heart. I will miss him and his smile. Heaven is so lucky to have him under their wing."

George Spear wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"I had the privilege of riding home from Chicago on the train with George after he attended a sibling's funeral in Indiana. We had such a lovely visit. I was struck by George's zest for life and his gratitude for the wonderful life he had lived. I was also always impressed that he knew my name and called me by it whenever I saw him. It was an honor to be his friend. I loved that man and will miss him! From Robin Walden"

Lisa Morrell wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"I am so very sorry for your loss.George will be missed by everyone who knew him.He was a great guy.You all will be in our prayers.The Morrell and Junkerman Families."

Karen Gagnon wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"Sorry to hear about George's passing. He and Charlotte were great friends to my parents. He was there for dad when mom passed and also when dad passed. Since Greg's death last November I have experienced many ups and downs I Always will have the memories as will you. Karen Gagnon"

Chris Hunter wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"George was a truly wonderful man. He and Charlotte will be greatly missed. My condolences to my friends John, Jeff and the rest of the family."

Ron and Ann Abel wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"So sorry for your loss - our prayers are with your family."

Bruce Rice wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"Loved George Spear. He was truly a kind and compassionate man. I would imagine everyone has a George Spear story who knew him. Our prayers go out to all the family members. He leaves a great legacy and family. Prayerfully, Bruce and Maxine Rice"

Gary & Sandra Seals wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"Just knowing George and Charlotte Spear and sharing their friendship is a treasured memory that will not be forgotten. George was a gentle and caring individual that was truly concerned about other people. He had a keen awareness about peoples dignity and a willingness to help in any way he could. It has been a great pleasure to have shared time with this extraordinary couple. May his awards be plentiful with many of God's blessings."

Karen Forte wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"John and family, my thoughts are with you."

KEITH DOUGLAS wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"Our deepest condolences to the Spear family.Mr. Spear was a wonderful man and one of our greatest supporters of Blue Devil Basketball.People like him helped make Blue Devil Basketball special.Its great to see Jeff is still carrying on that family tradition.The Douglas Family."

Tom Kendall wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"John, Bob and Jeff: I am deeply saddened to hear of your father's passing. My sincerest condolences. He was a great, great man. I thought the world of him. May God bless you all in your time of need."

Don and Marie Lawless wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"George was a wonderful kind and caring person. He helped us get through many funerals in our family and his kind words and Gods help we got through it! He will be sadly missed! God Bless you and your family Jeff and may God give you peace as you go through this sad time!"

Janet Scoggan-Thomas wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"Several weeks ago, I had a wonderful conversation with Mr. Spear at the club. I saw him in the Terrace Bar and he waved me over. We talked at length about many things, his service to our nation in the Army, his love of travel, his Charlotte and numerous other topics. As I left to go back to work, he stood up and gave me a huge bear hug and thanked me for being so kind to him and to Charlotte. I told him that it was an easy job being kind to both of them. I am so grateful now that I had that final conversation with him that Tuesday evening. I will miss him dearly."

Stacy (McCleery) McClelland wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"So sorry to hear about George's passing. Will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers!!"

Dick & Pat Wentura wrote on Jun 20, 2013:

"Dear Spear Family, Remembering George as a special friend----we shall miss him. Sincerely, Dick & Pat Wentura"