Shane Spencer

Shane Spencer July 24, 1920 - February 22, 2011 A.L. "Shane" Spencer passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, February 22, 2011. He was 90 years old and a resident of Bakersfield for the past 64 years. Shane Spencer was born in Milo, Oklahoma, on July 24, 1920, the son of Has Spencer and Bittie Spencer (Thomason). He was one of six sons, along with two daughters. Shane graduated from Graham High School in 1939 and served in the Army Air Force during World War II. Shane also attended Bakersfield College, where he studied real estate and earned his real estate license. He was an employee of Ernst Brothers for 34 years prior to his retirement. Shane was also a well-known and accomplished country musician. He started playing the fiddle at 5 years of age, and later became part of Bakersfield Sound music scene from the 1940s through the 1960s. In the 1970s, he resumed his love of the fiddle and played in numerous events and performances until the age of 89. Shane was also a dedicated Christian and a member of Valley Baptist Church. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior in 1964 and became a strong Christian influence with his family and friends. Shane is survived by his wife of 60 years, Halta; two sons and daughters-in-law, Glenn and Pamela of Bakersfield and Ken and Lynn of Sparks, NV; five grandchildren, Andrew, Jamison, Shane, Meagan, and Luke; nieces, Martha, Jowanna, and Nelba; and nephews, David and Don. He leaves behind many friends from over the years. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Irene and Naomi; brothers, Richard, George, John, Alfred, and Garland; and niece, Linda. Visitation will be held from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, February 25, 2011, with a chapel service at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 26, 2011, at Greenlawn Memorial Chapel, 3700 River Blvd. Service will be conducted by Pastors Craig Amos and Larry Wood. The family would like to express its thanks to the staff of Odyssey Hospice for their wonderful care and support. Greenlawn Mortuary www.bakersfield.com/obits