David E. (“Dave”) Alspach, 82, of Lancaster, passed away on September 19, 2025, at Homestead Village. Born on February 24, 1943, he was the son of the late Alfred C. Alspach and Mary F. Alspach.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Robyn J. Alspach; their children, Anne Alspach Potterton (Chip Potterton) and Robert Clayton “Clay” Alspach (Sarah Gulley); and five beloved grandchildren, Charlie Potterton, Will Potterton, Anna Alspach, Ellie Alspach, and James Alspach. Dave is also survived by his sister, Francie Wenner, and brothers, Alfred C. Alspach, Jr. and George D. Alspach. He was preceded in death by his sister, Carol Alspach, and his brother, James C. Alspach.
Dave was a graduate of J.P. McCaskey High School, Cornell University, and Temple University Law School. He practiced law in Lancaster for more than 40 years, beginning in general practice and later dedicating his career to representing the Lancaster County Children and Youth Agency, a role he served with distinction for over four decades.
Deeply committed to civic life, Dave served as president of the Lancaster Bar Association and of the Hempfield School Board, where he also held the role of treasurer. His community involvement extended to the Lancaster Tax Collection Bureau, the American Business Club of Lancaster, and the boards of the Occupational Development Center, the Salvation Army, and the Boys and Girls Club of Lancaster. He was also a Cub Master, Assistant Scout Master, youth soccer coach, and a Republican Committeeman for more than 30 years.
Outside of work and service, Dave loved to cook. From running the kitchen at his fraternity house to managing food service in Yellowstone National Park, he delighted in preparing meals and later shared that joy with his grandchildren, teaching them how fun cooking could be.
Above all, Dave took pride in the personal and professional successes of his wife, children, and their spouses, and cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren. One grandson once summed him up perfectly: “My Gaddy is like a big kid.”
Dave’s family extends their gratitude to the dedicated staff at Homestead Village for their care and support.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Dave’s life during a drop-in memorial gathering between the hours of 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at the Bachman Center at Homestead Village, 633 Community Way, Lancaster, PA. All are welcome to gather, share memories, and honor his legacy.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
141 E. Orange Street, Lancaster, PA 17602

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