Robert John (Bob) Spivey

The soul of Robert John (Bob) Spivey was called to the next stage of its journey on January 18, 2015. His life on earth was full, and he enjoyed it to the end. He was born October 13, 1925 on a farm near Minneapolis, Kansas to Ora M. Spivey and Diana Mabel (Carpenter) Spivey. He was essentially a dreamer, rather impractical, always loving of his wife and son. He could lose himself in a book or in the making of a new model airplane. He served in the United States Army during World War II, earning the Combat Infantry Badge, the Bronze Star, as well as the Purple Heart Medal for wounds received in the Battle of The Bulge. He left the Army in 1946, met the love of his life, Jane Edwards, on December 27, 1946 and married her on March 23, 1947. In 1948 he reenlisted in the Army, serving in the United States and in Venezuela. While living in Minnesota in the early 1960s, he became a Certified Methodist Lay Speaker. This served well in Westminster Manor because he stepped in if a Minister scheduled for Sunday Vespers was unable to attend the Vespers for any reason. He also delivered the Vespers message as the scheduled speaker on a number of occasions. His 56 year, 10 month marriage to the girl of his dreams, E. Jane (Edwards) Spivey, was the central purpose of his life. Their son, Robert Lynn Spivey, was his pride and joy. He never lived close to his two grandchildren, but always tried to keep informed of their accomplishments as they grew to maturity. After 1981, Lisa and Lauren Hatcher were honorary granddaughters. They lived next door to his home in Western Oaks. He retired to Austin in 1980 after a combined civilian and military career with the United States Government of slightly more than 34 years. His hobby was designing, building, and flying radio controlled model airplanes. After retiring to Austin he joined the Aeromodelers of Austin Club and convinced the membership to join the Austin Adopt a School Program. They adopted Langford Elementary School. Bob spent many happy hours in the classroom using model airplanes to illustrate principles of mathematics and physics and to emphasize the necessity for a good education. He continued in this endeavor for more than 8 years. He credited the association with the eager young minds with helping keep him young! He earned an Associate in Liberal Arts degree from the University of Minnesota, and a BA from The University of Maryland, both through night school. His wife and son were of crucial assistance in this nine year endeavor, giving him time for study, as well as spending evenings without him at the supper table! He was a Life Member of the Academy of Model Aeronautics, which he served as a Leader Member as well as a Contest Director; a Life Member of The National Association of Retired Federal Employees, and a member of The Littlefield Society and the Chancellors Council of the University of Texas. From July, 1999 he lived at Westminster Manor. Until her death in January 2004, his beloved wife Jane shared his life at Westminster. He had been very lonesome since she departed, and looked forward to their reunion. Bob is survived by his brother Elbert Spivey (wife Joyce) and his two grandchildren, Edric Haleen (wife Brandi) and Alison Johnson (husband Chris). He is pre-deceased by his dear wife Jane and son Robert Lynn Spivey. Memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Safe Place, Hospice Austin, or to the donor's favorite charity in his memory.