Ira Elmer Spieker passed peacefully on August 30, 2018, at Covenant Village of the Great Lakes in Grand Rapids, MI, at the age of 101 and 11 months. He was born on September 4, 1916, in Cass County, Iowa, to the late Elmer and Sadie (Wilson) Spieker. In addition to his parents, Ira was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Wanda. Ira is survived by his twin sister, Ida. Until Ira’s passing, he and his sister were the oldest living brother/sister twins in the United States for a number of years. Also surviving are his sons, David (Diane) of Mecosta MI, and Stephen (Liz) of Grand Rapids MI; and grandchildren, Katy, Kyle (Monica and great granddaughter Adalyn), Keith, and Kurt. Ira graduated from Iowa State University with a Mechanical Engineering degree in 1940. In 1943, Ira enlisted to serve his country in the Marine Corps, and, during this time, in WWII, he received numerous honors, and obtained the military rank of Major. In 1951, he married the love of his life, Wanda. After retiring from the service in 1961, Ira began working as a hospital engineer in Ames, Iowa, and then, in 1967, took a position at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids, MI, as the Superintendent of Works. Ira will be remembered as a kind, witty, generous, and patient man, all the while encouraging family and friends alike to walk with the Lord, and to actively pursue their goals. Ira loved to work with his hands and was known for making a variety of unique crafts out of repurposed materials. He also loved collecting shells, stamps, coins, and growing plants. Ira was a faithful servant of Jesus Christ and was an active member of First Evangelical Covenant Church in Grand Rapids. He often volunteered his time and energy at Covenant Village and his faithfulness was evident throughout his entire life. Many friends and extended family speak of how Ira was a great example and mentor to them. Visitation will be held at Reyers North Valley Chapel in Grand Rapids on Monday, September 3, from 6:00 – 8:00 pm. A Funeral Service will be held at First Evangelical Covenant Church, in Grand Rapids, on Tuesday, September 4, at 11:00am with a visitation one hour prior. Burial will follow at Fort Custer National Cemetery, where Ira will be laid to rest with his love, Wanda. Donations in Ira’s name may be made to First Evangelical Covenant Church Mission Fund, 1933 Tremont Blvd NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504.
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