Donald Spear (Spear)

Obituary of Donald Henry Spear Houghton Donald H. Spear, 69, a resident of Houghton and well known area businessman passed away unexpectedly early Tuesday morning December 23, 2014, following a lengthy illness. Donald was born on December 10, 1945, in Hancock, a son of late Herbert and Alice (Strand) Spear. He graduated Hancock High School with the class of 1964. He also attended Suomi College. Following school, Don moved to Gary, IN with a friend to work for US Steel as a laborer. He quickly found factory work and life in the city unappealing, and it wasn't long before he headed back home to the U.P. At the age of 20, Donald co-founded the Superior Sausage Company in Dollar Bay which he and his partner ran for several years. After the partnership sold the company, Donald began working for Superior National Bank in Hancock as a loan officer, and eventually became Assistant Vice President. After leaving the bank, Donald continued to serve on the bank board for over 30 years. It was at Superior National Bank that Donald met Helen (formerly Turpeinen), and the two married on May 7, 1975. The couple resided in Houghton where they raised their two children. In 1980, Donald and Helen purchased Brown Auto Parts in Hancock. Their business flourished and expanded to include a store in Baraga. In 1992 they sold the auto parts stores, but continued to keep busy with commercial and residential rental projects, as well other business endeavors. Don was also very active in various local service organizations and enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating, trips to Isle Royale and time spent at his camp. In 1986, a head injury resulting from a horseback riding accident left him paralyzed on his left side. While the injury limited his ability to participate in the activities he loved, he continued to enjoy time at his camp, and even went on hunting trips and fishing trips to Isle Royale with the help of his friends. His wife Helen played a critical role in Donald's life as caretaker and business partner in the years following his accident. Donald's personality, humor, intelligence, and kindness will be sorely missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. Surviving are: His wife: Helen Spear of Houghton His children: Shawn Spear of Chicago, IL Jessica (Sean) Gohman of Hancock His brother: David Spear of Bay City, MI A special aunt: Ernestine Hruska of the Bluffs Senior Living Community Several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Funeral Services for Don will be held 2 PM Monday, December 29, 2014, at Grace United Methodist Church of Houghton with Pastor Chuck Williams to officiate. Spring burial will be in the Forest Hill Cemetery of Houghton. Friends may call on Monday, December 29, 2014, from 10 AM until time of services at Grace United Methodist Church of Houghton. "In honor of Donald, the family asks that any memorial donations be directed to The Omega House, Salvation Army, Inter-Lutheran Theological Seminary, or to a charity of your choice." To view Don's obituary or to send condolences to the family please visit www.memorialchapel.net. The Memorial Chapel & Plowe Funeral Homes have been assisting the family with the arrangements. To send flowers to the family of Donald Spear, please visit Tribute Store