Richard A. Spierling

Richard A. Spierling, 83, of Lancaster, and formerly of Port Jefferson, N.Y., passed away unexpectedly Friday, February 27, 2009.
Born Dec. 19, 1925, in Erie, he was the son of the late Arthur and Evelyn (Caddoo) Spierling. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Arlene Fitze Spierling.
Spierling was a graduate of Culver Academy in Culver, Indiana, where he was actively involved with alumni affairs. He served with the 1252nd United States Army Engineer Corps in World War II. He graduated from Swarthmore College with a bachelor's degree in history and from New York University with a master's degree. For 36 years, Dick was a history, English, photography and driver's education teacher with the Port Jefferson School District on Long Island, N.Y. An avid world traveler and photographer, Dick especially enjoyed his trips to Africa photographing its wild animals.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his brother in-law and wife: Clarence and Ruth Fitze; six nieces and nephews including Judd Fitze and Debbie Fitze Rhoads, and five great-nieces and nephews, including Chris and Corey Fitze.
Memorial services were held at Willow Valley North with Chaplain Bill Archer officiating, and a reception following the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Matthias Brunner Education Fund, c/o Willow Valley Manor North, 600 Willow Valley Square, Lancaster, PA 17602. To send a condolence or for further information, visit www.gundelfuneralhome.com