Stephen Spencer

1932 - 2026

Stephen "Steve" Spencer, 93, of State College, formerly of Canton, passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Mt. Nittany Medical Center in State College, Pa. Born on March 15, 1932, in Canton, he was the son of the late Clarence and Maud (Phipps) Spencer. Steve attended Canton area schools and graduated with the Class of 1950. He continued his education at Penn State University, earning a bachelor's degree in Dairy Science in 1954.



Shortly after graduation, Steve enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving his country for two years. His professional career began in 1957 as an Assistant County Farm Agent in Northumberland County, a position he held for two and a half years. On June 21, 1958, he married the former Hildegard Mertz. Together they shared 67 years of marriage and raised three children.



In 1959, Steve returned to Penn State for graduate studies and earned his master's degree in Farm Management in 1961. He remained in State College and dedicated 36 years to Penn State as a Dairy Specialist. He retired in 1995 as Professor Emeritus of Dairy Science Extension. Following retirement, he continued to lend his expertise as an expert witness in numerous court cases. Steve was also active in his community, serving on the International Committee on Milk Weighing Devices, participating in the Kiwanis Club of State College, and volunteering at the Penn State Agricultural Museum.



Widely regarded as an expert in milking systems, Steve's work took him to all 50 states and Puerto Rico. He delivered scientific presentations in six Canadian provinces and 15 foreign countries. His extensive writing included 12 journal articles, four chapters in three books, 50 invited papers, 80 articles in the popular press, and 37 scientific papers presented at technical meetings.



Steve leaves behind his wife, Hildegard, at home, children; Cynthia (Kevin Fagley) of State College, Todd (Emily) of Bayfield, CO, and Alex (Mary) Annapolis of Maryland and a brother Stanley Spencer.



Besides his parents, Steve was predeceased by his brothers; Phillip and Wesley and sisters; Margaret, Ellen and Evelyn.



A private graveside service will be held in the Park Cemetery in Canton at the convenience of the family. Pepper Funeral Home and Cremation Facility, 578 Springbrook Drive in Canton is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories of Steve and condolences to his family may be shared by visiting www.pepperfuneralhomes.com