David L. Spear

David L. Spear, 62, of Windsor, Connecticut, passed away on January 9, 2024. His family surrounded him in his last days. Pastor Tim Oslovich also provided gracious care. Dave was born to Ralph and Nina Spear on September 9, 1961, in Valley City, North Dakota. He explored many talents as he frequently moved around the world with his family. He could fold a paper crane out of a candy wrapper. He taught himself a lot of math independently as a child. In 1983, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Colorado, Boulder. He got married that same year. Dave earned his professional engineering license in 1989. He built his own business, DLS Traffic, where he completed many projects in the local community. In 1994, he earned a Master of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Connecticut. He worked toward safe roads for everyone. Dave enjoyed playing guitar, especially at church. In his spare time, he loved to ski or play tennis. He always enjoyed a close game of cards or mini golf, too. He was also a wonderful father to his 3 children.

Dave is survived by his parents, Ralph and Nina Spear of Greensboro, NC, and the mother of his children, Ellie Spear. He is also survived by his daughter, two sons, and their spouses: Samantha and Martin Carlson of Norman, OK, Christopher Spear of Manchester, CT, and Jonathan Spear and Abby Palmer of West Hartford, CT. He is survived by his siblings: Jon and Petra Spear of Bethesda, MD, Ron and Karin Spear of Naples, FL, Susan and Bryan Fournier of Greensboro, NC, and Jeffrey and Katie Spear of Cary, NC. He had 4 nephews, 3 nieces and 3 grandchildren.

Dave strongly valued honesty and optimism. His parting words were, "Be happy and smile." The family requests memorial gifts be sent to Trinity Lutheran Church at 20 Meadowlark Road in Vernon, CT, 06066. A memorial service for Dave will take place in Spring 2024. Contact the church for details at tlcvernon.org.