Donald B. Spence

1925 - 2016

July 20, 1925 - February 4, 2016 Donald B Spence has passed after a long battle with COPD. He was born July 20, 1925, and passed peacefully on Feb.4, 2016. Don attended Lewis and Clark High School, and upon graduation joined the Marine Corps, where he attained the rank of sergeant. On completing his tours of duty in Iwo Jima and Nagasaki, Japan, he returned to Spokane to marry the love of his life, Alpha Shafer in 1946. He attended both Whitworth and EWSC, earning his education degree, and playing varsity football for both. He began his teaching career in Moses Lake, and transferred back to Spokane in 1953. In 1957 he was one of the original teachers to open the Mead Junior High School, where he taught math and science, and coached football, baseball, and basketball until his retirement. Upon his retirement he kept busy with various odd jobs, but primarily with babysitting his grandchildren. He also spent a fair amount of time perfecting his golf game at Wandermere golf course achieving 3 holes in one as a result. Don also enjoyed all manner of outdoor sports, including hunting, fishing, horseback riding, skiing,and camping. Most of all, Don loved his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, and was a friend to all who met him. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Lucille and Ray Spence, and his brother James Spence. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Alpha Spence, and his son Scott Spence, and daughter Shannon Spence, all of Spokane. He is also survived by his grandson Tyler Spence (and wife Tammy) of Bremerton, Wa. , and granddaughter Rory Spence Graves (and husband Cameron) or Bothell, Wa. ,and 6 great grandchildren. Don lived a full and happy life,had a kind and generous spirit, and will be dearly missed. The family would like to thank the staff at Vesta Rose Adult Family Home for their care on compassion for dad in his final years. A private memorial service with family members will be held at a later date. The family suggests that , if so inclined, donations can be made in Don's name to American Lung Association.