Robert A. Spicer

Robert A. Spicer, 84, of St. Joseph, MI passed away peacefully Wednesday, April 1, 2015, at The Willows Assisted Living Center. A memorial service and luncheon will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2015, at 11 A.M. at Fairplain Presbyterian Church, 210 W. Napier Ave., Benton Harbor, with Pastor LaVerne Davenport officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to North Lincoln Senior Center.  Those wishing to share a memory of Robert online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com Robert was born on January 4, 1931, in Dayton, KY, to Virginia (Grau) and Arthur Spicer.  He graduated from Highland High School in Fort Thomas, KY.  After high school he attended Eastern Kentucky University where he not only earned his Bachelor’s degree, but also met the love of his life, Janet Damron. They were married on December 20, 1952. Robert went on to earn his Master’s degree in Education Administration from Miami of Ohio in 1960. Robert proudly served his country by joining the U.S. Army where he earned the title of Captain of the National Guard and Artillery Officer in the 9th Infantry.  His teaching career began in Trotwood, Ohio, and he later served as Superintendent at Licking Valley Schools and Clyde-Green Springs Schools, both in the state of Ohio.  After retiring, he spent many years as an Interim Superintendent and City Manager.  Robert enjoyed photography, fishing, sport clay shooting, and cheering for the Ohio State Buckeyes.  He was a proud member of the Fairplain Presbyterian Church, N.R.A., Jekyll Island Rotary Club and the North Lincoln Senior Center, where he also served on the board.  Robert’s life was a happy one spent helping children and teachers.  He believed “Education” to be the key to tomorrow’s future. Robert is survived by his wife Janet; daughter, Janet (William R.) Thomas of Clyde, OH; grandchildren, Amy (Michael) Dirlam of St. Joseph, Robert Mattey Spicer of Columbus, OH; great grandchildren, Mason and Cameron Dirlam of St. Joseph; siblings, Arthur and Jim Spicer, both of California, and Jean (Richard) Carroll of Flag Staff, AZ. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Robert Spicer Jr. and sister, Joy Erpenbeck.