David Joseph Spaeder

DAVID JOSEPH SPAEDER

October 19, 1930 – November 24, 2025

David Joseph Spaeder, 95, of Erie, Pennsylvania, passed away on Monday, November 24, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Erie on October 19, 1930, David was the son of William T. and Julia (Lochner) Spaeder and one of eleven children: William, Thomas, James, Marie Senger, Kathleen Peden, Mary Agnes Crolli, Mark, Madeline, Paul, and Jerome. On August 28, 1954, he married Joanne (Black) Spaeder, with whom he shared a long marriage and growing family.

David graduated from Cathedral Prep High School in 1948. After high school, he served in the United States Navy as a member of the Seabees and later studied engineering at Gannon University.

Raised during the Great Depression, David learned early that hard luck is overcome by hard work and determination. Those beginnings shaped a durable grit, a disciplined and measured way of thinking, and a deep sense of responsibility that guided how he carried himself throughout his life.

David dedicated his career to Wm. T. Spaeder Mechanical Contractors, founded in 1914 by his father. After William’s passing in 1963, David was appointed president and served in that role until 1995. Under his leadership, the company expanded, relocating in 1966 to its current headquarters on East 18th Street and establishing itself through the late 1960s and 1970s as a leading industrial, institutional, and commercial mechanical contractor in northwest Pennsylvania. Although he formally retired in 1995, David continued to contribute to the organization on a daily basis well into his late 80s.

Outside of work, David valued a straightforward life and time with his family. He enjoyed being outdoors, maintaining his property, and taking on hands-on tasks that kept him grounded.

David’s greatest legacy is his family. He is survived by his children, in order of birth: David Spaeder and his wife, Barbara, and their children Kelley, Katie, and David; Cheryl McNulty and her husband, John, and their children J.D. and Andrew McNulty; Terry Spaeder and his wife, Pam, and their children Kim, Brian, and Jenna.

He is also survived by 14 great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his wife, Joanne; his parents; and several siblings.

Those who knew David will remember his plainspoken nature, steady determination, and the example he set of showing up, doing the work, and taking care of his own.

David’s family is deeply grateful for the time they were able to share with him. His presence, guidance, and steadfast example shaped their lives in ways that will endure. The time spent with him remains a lasting gift, and his family will forever be thankful.

Funeral services will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Kuhl Hose Fire Department.