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BORN
1952
DIED
2021
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David Spitzer Obituary
Spitzer, David Allan
MADISON - David Allan Spitzer, 69, died May 27, 2021. He was born Jan. 6, 1952, to Clarence and Carol (Schaal) Spitzer in Newburgh, N.Y.
Dave was a gentle and compassionate man. He was an extraordinary teacher, teaching fourth grade at Lincoln Elementary in Madison for 20 years. He taught his students to love and respect the natural environment, taking them to the Madison School Forest regularly throughout the year, including winter. He had a lasting impact on hundreds of students.
Dave was a lifelong champion of environmental causes and efforts to reduce climate change. He lived his life to leave the earth a better place. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed.
He is survived by his wife, Diane Fulton; stepsons, Eli, Harry and William Asnien; sister, Nancy Spitzer (Tom Tompkin); brother, Ron Spitzer (Eve Battaglia); and niece, Clare Spitzer.
A gathering in his honor will be held at a later date at the Madison School Forest. Anyone wishing to donate in Dave's honor may make a donation to an environmental or social justice organization of their choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Spitzer
Sponsored by Foster Funeral & Cremation Service - Coho St.
Bill Burns
July 11, 2022
I just read with sadness about Dave's passing in the recent Witt magazine. Dave and I were roommates and fraternity brothers during our freshman and sophomore years in college. Those were good years made better by knowing Dave. My prayers are with you.
Bert G. Zipperer
May 24, 2022
What is impressive about someone like Dave is this: a year after his passing I still think of times with him, I still recall lessons learned from him, his inspiration and his good humor .... and I still get in conversations with others about how wonderful Dave was and how lucky we are to have known him and been with him. Now THAT is a life well-lived ..... and again, I say "THANK YOU" to you, Dave.... you are a good Friend - and a mensch too!
Mai Thao
August 16, 2021
Mr. Spitzer left impactful imprints on my 4th grade days and continues to be one of the most influential and memorable teachers in my life. It has truly been a privilege to be one of your Time Capsule students and for that we will forever be bonded. You are with us in every way.
Larry Hale
June 7, 2021
David was my oldest daughter's 4th grade teacher and to this day she speaks fondly of him and especially the school forest overnights. He will be missed.
Eric Bloom
June 3, 2021
I was so sorry to hear of David´s passing. I knew him from Grammar School and Scouts back in the early 60s. He had a gentle nature and I imagine that he was a wonderful school teacher. Please accept my condolences.
Dick Roth
June 2, 2021
My condolences to Dave´s family. Dave was a year older than me and was one of my leaders in Boy Scouts. Troop 60 at Harlem Rd Elementary. Lots of camping trips together. I remember distinctly him showing me the stars and constellations. He could see them far better than me. Dick Roth
Bert G. Zipperer
June 1, 2021
I'm not saying anything countless others have not repeatedly said -- but Dave Spitzer was a tremendous educator, a warm, caring human being, and a devoted worker to make the world a better place for all. Dave inspired me continually -- and I want to say a very loud "Thank You"!
Mark Stengel
June 1, 2021
Dave was a rare true friend. He moved to my area in 5th grade the and immediately became my best friend through high school and the college years. Geography and life separated us in the pre-Internet/pre-cell phone days. Much to my regret now. Being with Dave was always an adventure and loads of fun because he was daring in ways I never was on my own. As a young person he was good and kind and helpful - much like the man he became, as I read here. My deep sympathy to his wife Diane and siblings Ron and Nancy, as well the many extended family member I came to know through Dave. Memories of Washington Hwy, Schaalay, Scouts, Christ Methodist and MYF shenanigans flood over me.
Pat Whyte
June 1, 2021
Dave's smile told me all I needed to know about him when we first met at his sweet home on Blackhawk. He loved the back yard which hosted numerous birds and had installed rain barrels to water the lawn. I am sorry to hear of his passing.
Padea Lee
June 1, 2021
Mr. Spitzer was the best 4th grade teacher anyone can ask for! Heaven has gained another beautiful angel..you will never be forgotten. Being in your class was one of the best years of my school life. Thankyou for teaching us kids how to play chess. Thankyou for all the beautiful memories at the school forest. You will be missed deeply.
Pauline Nachbar Harris
June 1, 2021
My deepest sympathies to Dave's family. Dave and my brother Bob were in the same class and also shared scouting together. Dave was at our house quite often. Always the nicest of guys!
Susan Shafer
June 1, 2021
Nancy, I am so sorry for your loss. You always spoke of his love for the environment, literacy and mastery at teaching. And his father was my teacher! May his teachings and passions continue to touch the ones that he loved and spread throughout the universe. in peace and healing, susan shafer
Vichei
May 31, 2021
Mr. Spitzer,
I am so sorry to hear about your passing especially during these hard times. It was great having you as a fourth grade teacher and remember the great memories of you taking us to the school forest to learn about trees and the natural environment. Even though you may not be physically here with us, your memories will last a lifetime to those who knew you. Condolences to your family and loved ones. Thank you for all that you do and farewell until we see each other again.
-Vichei
Clare Seguin
May 31, 2021
Diane and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I listened to the birds singing this morning and thought about what an amazing person Dave was. I remembered biking with him once when he stopped suddenly near a forest and said, "listen!" He then proceeded to describe about three different bird songs he was hearing, and what sort of feathered pal of his was chirping each one. I was astonished at his level of awareness, knowledge, and sensitivity. He brought this to his teaching, to friendships, to everyone lucky enough to spend time with him. He will be greatly missed. He was a treasure.
Chee
May 31, 2021
I often think about Mr. Spritzer and Eileen during 4th grade at Lincoln Elementary, our trip to Door county and School forest. It was so much fun! I did some searching and found that about Eileen also passed away of ALS. As an adult, the time with them were priceless and truly were childhood memories. Eileen illustrated alphabet book of my class during that year. I will always remember you, Mr Spitzer. Prayers.
Milea Thao
May 30, 2021
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Laura
May 30, 2021
Diane - I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family and friends.
Marc Kornblatt
May 30, 2021
In addition to honoring the environment, Dave celebrated literacy, as his volunteer work for the Little Free Library movement shows. He appeared in this documentary about the project. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4opWbwgNtaM
Tom Dawson
May 30, 2021
It is with great surprise and sorrow to learn of Dave's passing. He was a wonderful teacher and friend to our family, especially upon the passing of Eileen Potts Dawson. He will be greatly missed.
Wendy Brown
May 30, 2021
Diane, we are so very sorry for your great loss. Tom and I send healing and peace to you.
Lloyd Pike
May 30, 2021
Diane so sorry for your loss,our deepest sympathies to you and Dave´s family.We have you in our thoughts and prayers. Glen and Lloyd.
Dave
May 30, 2021
Such a beautiful man. The Universe has became a better place because Dave has been shared throughout it.
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