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Lonn Spencer Obituary

Lonn Butler Spencer Lonn Butler Spencer born July 2, 1947 in Battle Creek, MI went to be with his Lord January 12, 2010. Lonn graduated from Athens high school in 1965. He attended auctioneering school in Davenport, IA in 1965 and conducted auctions in the greater Athens area for thirty years. He attended Michigan State University where he met his wife Susan K. (Fhaner) Spencer whom he married on August 26, 1967. She survives; also surviving is his son Chad B. (Elizabeth) Spencer of Ceresco, and his two granddaughters, Lydia and Anna Spencer. Lonn is also survived by his two sisters Dee (Charles) Cardiff of Fairfax, VA and Kay (Thomas) Huggard of Culpepper, VA, along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Horace Pulver Spencer and Roberta Butler Spencer. Lonn worked for American National Bank from 1968 to 1975. In November of 1975 he opened the Lonn B. Spencer Agency selling insurance and real estate along side his wife for the next thirty five years. Lonn served as Athens township clerk for sixteen years. Lonn accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Saviour in 1974. He was a long time member of the Wakeshma Community church in Fulton, MI where he served as Awana Club commander for six years. He served as deacon and elder at various times, and was also a Sunday school teacher, and Awana Cubbies leader. Lonn loved people and could strike up a conversation with anyone. Lonn loved fishing, hunting, and was an avid golfer. He loved to attend and watch Michigan State football and basketball games. Lonn enjoyed numerous vacations including trips to his cottage on Loon Lake, near Stanton, MI, skiing in Winter Park, CO, and over the last eight years spending time in the winters in Sarasota and North Port, FL. Lonn loved his family dearly; he especially enjoyed time with his granddaughters mushroom hunting, giving them tractor rides and playing games. Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Monday at Wakeshma Community Church, 16732 East UV Avenue with Rev. David P. Mackaluso and Rev. Garry Thompson officiating. Interment will follow at Burr Oak Cemetery in Athens. The family will receive friends at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home on Sunday from 1:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and one hour prior to the service at the church. Memorial contributions may be given to the Wakeshma Community Church or First Tee of Battle Creek.

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Published by Battle Creek Enquirer on Jan. 16, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Lonn Spencer

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Amy

January 26, 2010

Please accept my deepest sympathies. Our Creator never meant for us to die and He is eager to raise the dead. The faithful man Job asked: "If an able-bodied man dies can he live again?. . . You will call, and I myself shall answer you. For the work of your hands you have a yearning." -Job 14:13-15.

January 26, 2010

We were in Texas when word reached us of Lonn's death. We were surprised and saddened by the news. Lonn was one of the first people we met 35 years ago when we first came to Athens. He was working at the bank at that time. Even though our dealings with him were mostly business, he always treated us as friends. We have, indeed, lost a friend and will miss him.

Bob and Laurie Swanson

Scott Bowman

January 22, 2010

Susan, Chad, and family,

It was with great sadness that we learned yesterday of Lonn's passing. Our hearts go out to all of you at this time of great sorrow. Lonn was such a great guy and will be missed by many more people than he would ever know. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you cope with his loss.

Scott Bowman & Family

Denny/Carol McClure

January 21, 2010

We have soo many wonderful memories of our times with Lonn, Susan, Chadley and his family...I could go on for pages, but will highlight only a couple.

For me--I/we shall be forever thankful that Pastor Brotton & Lonn visited my Dad in the hospital yet one more time and Lonn led my Dad to the Lord!

For Denny--He/we shall be forever thankful for Lonn's encouragement & offer to take him deer hunting after his heart transplant. The idea hadn't crossed Denny's mind--he could hardly keep food on his fork to get to his mouth, as he was shaking soo much from all the meds. Just 2 months later Lonn drove him out & Denny took his position in a hunting tent. Lonn pushed thru the woods--Denny got two with the help of Lonn & God Himself--he shot one on the bridge of his nose! Lonn was such an encourager! Denny had a renewed strength from the time Lonn first shared the idea/dream!

Like everyone, we miss him soo much, but are reminded that faith in God includes faith in His timing.

Beckey(Williamson) Knowles

January 21, 2010

Sue and family... i attended school, with Lonn, K-12, and remember him as a gentle spirit. We were also on a committee, together, from area churches, who brought a revival team, The Lunstrum Family, from Sissiton, SD, to the Union City High School, in the early 70's. What a man of faith, our Lonn. Couldn't be at the celebration, of his life, due to surgery. My prayers are with you.

Troy McClure

January 21, 2010

It is truly an honor to be able to say Lonnie B. was my friend; I am so touched by that. Lonn and I shared many experiences: I was active with Lonn in AWANA clubs as a child (where I accepted Christ and was baptized in Wakeshema Community Church), I worked auctions with him as a young man learning about gagets that I had no idea their functions, Chad and I dumped a hay wagon with Lonn once on his farm (a truly hysterical memory in hindsight), we often discussed UofM versus MSU match ups (lately he had gotten the better of me), I worked with Lonn at his agency for over four years, he was constantly giving me golf tips, I shot my largest buck while hunting with Lonn and my father, and we prayed with/for each other on a regular basis over the past 4.5 years. I will take all the words of wisdom and constant motivation from him and do my best to pass it on to my children, family, and friends. What a fantastic Christian example to us all! I miss him but look forward to spending time with him again in Eternity.

Charlene Mihalus

January 19, 2010

I loved when Lonn came in the bank and told us "old" stories. Charlene

DENNIS ASARO

January 18, 2010

I remember Lonn as a Godly man whom looked to care for others and their needs. He will be missed.

Steve McCormick

January 18, 2010

Dear Chad,
We're so sorry to hear of your loss. Your father was a wonderful man and I'm sure will be greatly missed.
Please know our hearts and prayers are with you and your family.
Steve & Mandy McCormick & boys

Gerry Gardner

January 17, 2010

our hearts are with you , In the words of Levi , he was a good grandpa ! I remember when he took me to the laundry mat when i didn't want to go bike riding my heart cries for him ! we all feel that way Lonn touched us all. the Lord gained a good man & we lost one ,but we will cherish having had Lonn in our lives ! He will be missed. GO GREEN GO WHITE

Jill Grigsby

January 17, 2010

Dear Susan and Chad,
When Andrea and I were little girls, we always looked forward to our summer visits to Athens to see Lonn and our "Spencer" cousins. He gave us a cat one year, which we took home to Florida. Lonn's smile lit up every room he entered.
I am so sorry for your loss.

Gary and Stephanie Dunham

January 17, 2010

Dear Spencer Family,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May we all have peace knowing we will see Lonn again one day in Heaven. God Bless.

January 17, 2010

Susan and Family,

Please accept our deepest condolensces on the loss of your husband and father. While we never had the chance to meet and know Lonn, we are joined in thoughts and prayers with you. May God by with each of you.

Pete and Anne Nicolaou
El Paso, TX

Paul Franck

January 17, 2010

Susan and Chad
So sorry to hear about this. My heart goes out to you. I have some great childhood memories because of your family, and I am sorry for your loss.

Paul

Tami Walker

January 17, 2010

A friend asked me how long I knew Lonn. I had to think about that. It seems he was always there, I said. My first memory is way back when Susan and Lonn lead the AWANA program. I still remember those circle games and the theme song to AWANA. Well time flies by and next thing you know Lonn is my adult class Sunday school teacher. I was one of the fortunate ones who had the blessing of being taught biblical teaching from a child through adulthood from a man of God who was passionate about the one we serve. Even in his death he is still teaching me valuable lessons.
Sue, Chad, Elizabeth, Lydia, and Anna we love you! We approach His throne on your behalf.

Larry & Shireen Voss

January 17, 2010

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Missy Hatfield

January 16, 2010

My favorite memory of Mr.Lonn was the day I was baptised,after the ceremony and still soaking wet Lonn walked up to me and put his arms around me and gave me a huge hug and said "welcome to the family" it just made me stop and smile and hug him back.In that moment Lonn left a lasting impression on my heart. Thanks God for such a Great Man!

Pamela Loudenslager

January 16, 2010

Susan and Family, Dave and I were so sorry to hear of Lonn's passing. We are in Arizonia for the winter so wil not be able to attend the service. I have fond memories of Lonn from my youth. We had such fun at Pauls farm playing and riding horses. Paul gave me a house called Bill and we had a great time with him. You and your family are in our thoughts ad prayers. Fondly, Pam Loudenslager

Dennis Hurlbut

January 16, 2010

Susan, Chad and Family,
I feel so honored to have known Lonn. Three of things I will remember from conversations with him his is love of his family, his community and his faith. You have so many memories and he will be remembered by many. I am sure God has big plans for him and when he asked Lonn for help he did not hesitate to say "here I am " Many thoughts and prayers.

Doug Baker

January 16, 2010

I am so sorry to hear of your loss.

January 16, 2010

Susan and Family

I am sorry to hear of your loss. I played golf with Lonn at Riverside and he was my guest member in 2009. I enjoyed our time together. I am in Florida now in Naples amd will not be attending the funeral. Just wanted you to know I will miss him and offer my sympathy to you and the family.

Don Thomason

January 16, 2010

Susan and Family:
I have no words to adequately express my feelings for your loss. Lonn and your family have always been dear to my heart. I treasure the memories of the times our families shared together. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Janet Foster

Ann Slaughter Catchick

January 16, 2010

I am so sorry to hear of your loss, Sue. My heart goes out to you.

Sally Odell

January 16, 2010

Susan and family.
So saddened to hear of Lonn's death.
It came too soon and we were not ready.
Know that I remember his wonderful
presence. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Fondly, Sally O'Dell
Bonita Springs, Fl.

Shirley Fuller

January 16, 2010

Susan and Family,
My heart and prayers are with you in your time of loss. I pray that you all feel the extra love and strength that only God can provide at a time like this. Remember all the good times and share laughter about the things and times that Lonn shared with you. Susan, when I lost David, it was the love of my children, grandchildren, church family and, friends that helped me survive. I pray the same for you. Love -

Cinda Wood

January 16, 2010

I am so sorry for your loss, though I didn't know the family well, I knew Lonn from 4H, school, and insurance. He was always kind hearted and friendly. My thoughts & prayers are with the family. Lonn will be greatly missed.
Cinda (Blake)Wood

Ivan Fall

January 16, 2010

Although I only met Lonn when he was a child on ocations while visiting with his Father and his Uncle Paul with my Dad and when we had family reunions. I think all of the Spencer Family are great people and I am very sory for your loss of Lonn.

January 16, 2010

Horace would be baling hay across the road from my Grandfather's farm and we could hear Lonn selling every bale of hay he was stacking on the wagon. Good memories, I am sorry for your loss.

Ed Stemaly

Chris, Missi, Laecey and C.J. Foster

January 16, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Spencer family and the employees at the insurance agency.
So sorry about your loss.

January 16, 2010

Susan, Chad and Family,
There are no words that can comfort you at this moment, your loss is so great. . Your memories will be the greatest comfort. I know that Lonn is with our Lord and is at peace eternally. I am sorry that I can not be with you to celebrate his life. I will keep you all in my prayers.
Gretchen (Moore) Rininger

JoLynn McClure

January 16, 2010

I have known Lonn and Sue since I was a little girl. I will always remember Lonn for the smile that was always on his face and for the kindess that he gave to everyone around him. My thoughts and prayers are with Sue, Chad and their family.

Wayne and Carole Sharp

January 16, 2010

Dear Susan, Chad and Family,

We have always thought of Lonn as one of the "great guys" of the world and we have paused to fondly remember him. We can only send you our very most heartfelt thoughts at this time.

January 16, 2010

Sue & Family,
The loss of someone so close is
difficult to bear I share your grief.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Barb Korn

Joseph Farr

January 16, 2010

We are sorry for your loss. He will be missed.

Janet (Snyder) Masten

January 16, 2010

Susan, to you and Chad and your family, I am so sad for you at this time. Lonn was a great guy - I attended 13 years of school with him so I knew him "in the early years". When Jean Neterer and I stopped by the office a few years ago for a visit, it was just like no time had passes - except for the grey hair and a few wrinkles. My thoughts , memories and prayers with be with you now and in the days to come.

George & Vivian Irons

January 16, 2010

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Liz Kinnisten

January 16, 2010

Dear Susan, So sorry to hear this, my heart hurts. I have such wonderful memories of Lonn and fun times with you both. He was so fun to talk to and I could see and feel his love for the Lord. I know hes up in Heaven wearing those fun golfpants and making a fashion statement. Hugs to you and your Family, Love Liz and Dave

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