Richard John Spear

Racine- Mr. Richard J. Spear, 86, passed away at his home on Wednesday, December 5, 2012. Richard was born in Racine on August 19, 1926 son of the late Russell and Gladys (nee: Hare) Spear. He was united in marriage to the late Lillian V. (nee: Hanson) on September 2, 1950. They shared 61 wonderful years together until she preceded him in death on October 31, 2011. After graduating from Washington Park High School in 1944, Richard enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served in Luzon, the Philippines, assigned to Infantry Company "K". He received the Bronze Star among other medals during his service. After the war, he received a B.A. in education from U.W. Milwaukee. He then worked for Webster Electric in Racine for over 25 years, ending his career there as Vice President of Sales. After leaving Webster, he became the owner of S.P. Hydraulics, and later retired doing what he loved, teaching at Gateway in Kenosha, for 11 years. He also loved to go fishing at his cabin up North and was known as a "Mr. Fix-It" to the children in his neighborhood. However, spending time with his grandchildren was his greatest joy in life. He is survived by his son, Thomas Spear; daughters, Cathryn (Kevin) Whiting and Lauri (Rob) Pileski; seven grandchildren, Jesse, Daniel, and Matthew Spear, Britney Whiting, and Joshua, Nicholas, and Jacob Ramsey; brother, William Spear, and a sister-in-law, Shirley Klees. He is also survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Besides his wife Lillian, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Gerald and Robert Spear. A service in honor of Richard will be held at Wilson Funeral Home on Tuesday, December 11, 2012 at 1:00pm. Interment will be held at Graceland Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet with the family from 12:00pm until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, cards and letters are appreciated. Memorials may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to his grandsons, Matthew and Nicholas for their loving care of their grandfather in the last months of his life. We would also like to extend a special thank you to Simone, and Jennifer of Hospice Alliance for all their care and compassion.

Richard John Spear

August 19, 1926 - December 5, 2012