Roy was born in Chicago, IL to Henry and Amanda (Bell) Spitzer on June 1, 1948. He was the fourth of five children and grew up in his mother’s hometown of Lostant, IL, a small farming community in LaSalle County. He graduated from the local high school in 1966. Roy graduated from the University of Illinois in 1971 with a BS degree in Geology, and went to work in Billings, MT, where he met Mike, his best friend of 50 years. He returned to the U of I and earned a MS degree in Engineering Geology in 1977. Roy thought he was lucky to have “the best job ever” as a consulting engineering geologist, working for several firms in Billings, Denver, and Longmont. He was always learning and gained many incredible friends, colleagues, and unique travel experiences along the way. He finished his successful 46-year career while with Deere & Ault Consultants in Longmont, retiring in December 2017.
Roy moved to the Longmont area in 1986 and began transforming a small farmhouse and pasture property in southwest Weld County into a family home. Roy and Debbie were married in 1991 and raised 3 great kids. Roy felt that being a father was one of the greatest blessings of his life, an adventure that brought him much joy. He was a very proud dad and was always on hand to cheer for his kids in their various endeavors through St. John the Baptist Church and School, Holy Family High School, and beyond.
Roy was known for his passion and enthusiasm for life, and was admired for his work ethic, determination, and kindness. He was very active and pursued many interests including rocks, music, horses, rodeo, sailing, hunting, fishing, and basketball (which he played until he was nearly 70). Roy cherished the legacy of his family’s lake house property in northwest WI and the time he spent there. Whether it was for the whole summer as a boy, a solo fishing trip, a family vacation, or a big family reunion – it was, for him, a very special place.
Roy was preceded in death by his parents. Roy is survived by his loving wife, Debbie, his daughters Holly and Maggie; his son Tom and wife Jennifer; his brother, Wayne (Wanda) Spitzer; his sisters, Sandra Huston, Karen (Chris) Upper, and Terry Ann Spitzer; numerous nieces and nephews; and his best friend Mike Janeczko.
A private Memorial Service was held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church.
A Celebration of Life is planned for May 14, 2021. Please reach out to the family for more details.
Visit www.ahlbergfuneralchapel.com for more information and to leave a message for his family.
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