Robert Edward Spencer

Robert Edward Spencer, 84, of Riverview, MI, passed away on Saturday, 3/10/18 surrounded by his family. Visitation will be from 2pm-9m, with a Rosary at 7pm on Friday 3/16 at Martenson Funeral Home in Trenton, MI. Funeral Services will be held at 10:30am on Saturday 3/17 at St. Cyprian's Church in Riverview, MI. Bob was a native of Pittsburgh, PA the son of Ralph and Edith Spencer, and brother to David and Ralph. He was a man devoted to his family and to his community. Bob excelled at the piano, and played the Double Belled Euphonium in his North Catholic High Marching Band. He was a paperboy in the hills of Pittsburgh, worked at a Sunoco Gas Station but more importantly worked behind the counter of the Isaly's dairy/deli store, the inventor of the first Klondike Bar. After a stint in the Army Artillery as an Evaluator and Mechanic, Bob graduated from the Indiana Institute of Technology, receiving a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering. He married his college sweetheart, Marian Bardsley, with whom he shared a love of music and swept her off her feet on the dance floor. He said she was the "best thing that ever happened to me." They moved to MI in 1959 and raised 4 children. Bob worked for 35 years at the Ford Motor Co. in Dearborn as a Design Engineer and has two Patents in his name. As an active lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus, and a 65 year member of the American Legion, Wyandotte, Bob served in many leadership roles and was instrumental in establishing the Taylor All Saints Council #4872. He was fascinated with Genealogy, tracing his roots to the 1500's, Bedford, England and found out he was a Son of the American Revolution. A certified scuba diver Bob enjoyed boating, golfing and traveling with his family. As a parishioner of 46 years at St. Cyprian Church, Bob served for 2 years on the Parish Council, was a Eucharistic Minister and Lector. He is preceded in death by his son, Robert Spencer, Jr. and brother, Ralph Spencer. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Marian Spencer, and their children Laura Vacca (Anthony); Paul Spencer; Arthur (Suzy) Spencer; Grandchildren: Christopher Spencer; Joseph Vacca; Jenna Vacca; Sarah Vick (Kyler); Great grandchild: Blake Vick. He will be missed by his brother David Spencer of Florida and many loved nieces, nephews and cousins around the country. The family appreciates all of your love and support at this difficult time. A donation to Angela Hospice, Livonia, MI would be appreciated to sustain the wonderful work they do and care that they provide. www.angelahospice.org/donate