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MICHAEL SPATES Obituary
MICHAEL F. SPATES
Our hearts are broken, as we announce the passing of Michael F. Spates "Mike", age 77, on August 28, 2020 peacefully at home surrounded by his wife and daughters. He was the loving husband and best friend of Christine "Chris" for 55 years; dearest dad and Pops of Laura (Dan) and Kathryn; best Pop-pa of Michael, Sean, and Natalie; dear son of William and Mary Spates; cherished brother of Margaret Byrne, William Spates Jr., James Spates, Gerald Spates (Linda), Cissy Spates VanSickle, and sister-in-law Felicia Kaufmann; wonderful uncle to many nieces and nephews, and good friend to so many. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Margaret, and brothers William and James. Mike worked for over 40 years at the United States Postal Service Headquarters in Washington, DC, retiring in 2009 as the Chief of Staff. He also served in the U.S Army and taught at the University of Maryland. Mike was the kindest, most charitable, and selfless man, who so many admired. His wonderful sense of humor and quick wit will be forever remembered by all who knew him.In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association on behalf of Mike or to the Michael F. Spates Alzheimer's research scholarship to be established. A service will be held at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament, 5949 Western Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20015, followed by a private gravesite burial. Given the current pandemic and that Mike would not want to jeopardize anyone's health, thoughts and prayers from a distance are wonderful too. A celebration of Mike's life and the formal announcement of a scholarship will be planned when it is safe to gather all of his friends and family. Online condolences can be shared at: www.pumphreyfuneralhome.com
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Memories and Condolences
for MICHAEL SPATES
3 Entries
Yvonne Yoerger
September 14, 2020
From the USPS employee newsletter, Link:
A ‘selfless’ leader
Spates, retired postal executive, dies
Postal Service employees are remembering Mike Spates, a beloved USPS retiree who died Aug. 28 at age 77.
Spates joined the organization as an operations records analyst in 1972 and served in a variety of roles during his 37-year career, including managerial positions in delivery, retail, processing, transportation, pricing and stamps.
Under Spates’ leadership, the processes for walk sequencing mail were integrated into USPS delivery units, marking the introduction of delivery point sequencing.
He also served as a mentor to many employees, including Acting Engineering Systems Vice President Linda Malone, who said Spates helped pioneer the concept of employee engagement many years before its use became widespread.
“Mike understood the power of connecting with his people — understanding who they are and most importantly inspiring them to be a better person and postal worker. When I was a newbie — fresh from the field and new to headquarters — Mike showed me the ropes, as he did with all new employees,” Malone said.
She also recalled his emphasis on using data in operational decision-making.
“Mike’s leadership style and his commitment to allowing the data to determine actions needed has resonated with me throughout my career. I am sure that his legacy will continue,” she said.
Before Spates retired in 2009, he served in two high-profile roles. First, he was named chief of staff to Postmaster General John Potter, then was appointed consumer advocate and vice president.
As Spates climbed the ranks of the organization, he maintained a common touch, even traveling to Fayetteville, TN, to pay tribute to a USPS custodian when the mayor proclaimed a day in the man’s honor.
In addition to his postal career, Spates served as an instructor in the U.S. Army and taught at the University of Maryland’s College of Business and Management, where he earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
He was survived by his wife, daughters, grandchildren and other relatives.
“Mike was the kindest, most charitable and selfless man, who so many admired,” his obituary stated. “His wonderful sense of humor and quick wit will be forever remembered by all who knew him.”
How you can show support
Gerald J Robinson
September 6, 2020
I am a retired Postal Service lawyer I gave legal advice to Michael Spates several times during my career. It was always fun to work for him because of his wit. I was sad to hear of his passing. The world is a less enjoyable place without him.
Nancy Ross
September 3, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful, giving, knowledgeable, special man. Love to Chris and family. I cherish a good time we had together at the Disney stamp event. You two were a joy to have there!
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