Alfred Irvin Spear

Alfred “Al” Irvin Spear, 91, of Merritt Island, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2024. There are many different things that can be said about the way a man lives his life, but the impact he has on the people who love him tells his story. This is Al’s story. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, dedication, and love that will be remembered by all who knew him.

Al was born on May 6, 1932, to Maurice and Edna Spear. One of seven children, he spent his early days on the farm as an energetic, mischievous, and hard-working boy. Soon after joining the Air Force he met the love of his life, Joan Pash, at church. They were married July 31, 1953, and the love story began. Five children (one son and four daughters) and 70 years later, Al and Joan were still in love. Al constantly told his family he felt so fortunate that God had given him such a wonderful wife—a testament to his enduring love and constant devotion to Joan.

Al was also dedicated to his family, his greatest source of pride and joy. Together, Al and Joan raised their five children, instilling in them the values of faith, hard work, compassion, kindness and frugalness that Al himself embodied every day. He was proud of his children and their spouses, and would tell everyone, “I have a doctor, an engineer, a psychologist, a caterer, a nurse, a lawyer, and a preacher. I’m all taken care of!” There was always a glow on his face when he talked about his family! Then came the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a proud Grandpa to 14 grandchildren and Papa Al to 29 great grandchildren. He loved teasing them and spending time with them!

Al started his career as a technician and finished as a manager of a research engineering lab. He had the ability to analyze the generators and motor designs to tell whether they could be built, and then he would build them. At one point in his life, he was one of the best in the country at what he did, and even has one of his generators at the Smithsonian. He had a brilliant mind that amazed all that he encountered. His mechanical aptitude was unmatched and marked by precision, innovation, and a deep understanding of his craft. He loved mentoring his younger colleagues; he was highly esteemed by them and his expertise was unparalleled.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Al will be remembered for his playful demeanor, his gentle spirit, his ability to bring a smile to those around him, his unwavering commitment to family and faith, and his ability to find the best bargains! His kindness brought light and joy to all who knew him. His actions spoke volumes, and his quiet strength and unwavering commitment to his beliefs inspired those around him. Deep faith in Christ was the foundation of his life, guiding him through challenges and triumphs with grace and resilience.

The heartbeats he left behind include: his wife, Joan; children: Dee (Larry) White, Ken (Dominique) Spear, Jan (Bryan) Selander, Cindy (Larry) Seagren, and Cathie (Paul) Whitham; 14 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren. Al was greeted in heaven by his parents, all of his siblings, and his grandson, Joshua. We are sure they are rejoicing to be reunited with him, but we will miss him here.

In his passing, Al leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and community. His memory will be cherished, and his legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the values he exemplified.

Calvary Chapel Church Celebration of Life service on Monday March 25th at 2pm.

Here is the link for the livestream...

https://www.ccmerrittisland.org/live

In lieu of flowers, it was Al’s wish that any memorial tributes be made in the form of charitable donations to:

Calvary Chapel Church

3500 North Courtenay Parkway

Merritt Island, FL 32953

www.ccmerrittisland.org/give

Please designate donations to “Al Spear Memorial” or, if donating online, select “Al Spear Memorial” from the drop-down list.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.wyliebaxleymerrittisland.com for the Spear family.