John Spooner

Rest in Peace, Captain John, I owe a number of memorable childhood summers to you from the times I spent at Casowasco, and you were a big part of that place. Can only hope my son gets to do sleepaway camp and meet someone as wonderful as you.

Thank you Lord, for the gift of John. A wonderful captain, a kind soul, and twinkle always in the eye. Love to Claire, Louise, and family.

Dear Claire and family...Captain John was more than inspiration during his volunteer days at CSM. His entry always brought a smile, as I knew I'd learn something unique that day! The soft voice shared so much and the man could truly listen! I am so happy to have shared his presence. Though an Army Veteran, I think his love of ships was more. My thought, as borrowed from a message to GBNF Sir Captain Tom Moore: "Fair winds, calm seas; Stand easy, Shipmate; Your watch is done." May God continue...

John was a very interesting cousin and our paths crossed at powersquadron and the Mather. QSuch a smart man! with love, Helen

Captain John was not only my mentor but also my friend. He loved that I was pursuing a degree in Elementary Education and encouraged me during my college years. When he heard me say that I had always wanted to learn how to dive, he patiently taught me. My love for sailing was inspired by his passion for the Pegasus. I know that you are singing "The Big Rock Candy Mountain" in Heaven while strumming the uke! Thank you for being such an inspiration to all of us! With love to Claire, Louise and CJ

I have many memories of John Spooner as a docent extraordinaire at the SS Mather Museum. He came aboard in the early 1990s when the Museum first opened and stayed for over ten years. He was so knowledgeable and engaged visitors young and old with stories and facts about the Mather as a working Great Lakes freighter. Well done, John! Rest in Peace.

Captain John-what a man!!!! I am humming a couple of his songs right now as I think of the campfires at Casowasco. The Pegasus, the ukulele, the trailer by the kitchen, the smiles-thank you for the memories and the love of sailing that you taught me and so many others at Casowasco. Sending love to Claire, Louise and CJ. Nettie Smith Aiosa

Praying for you, Claire. We will miss this fellow´s ukulele around our earthly campfires but look forward to gathering with him around a heavenly one some time in the future! Thank you for your summers of giving at Casowasco!