90, mechanic, enjoyed
woodworking and world soccer
Wilhelm "Willy" Spahr, 90, of Luther Acres, Lititz, passed away July 30, 2013 at Lancaster General Hospital.
Born in Mramorak, Yugoslavia, he was the third of 10 children to the late Johann and Magdalena (Erdmann) Spahr. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Wilhelmina (Mina) Spahr.
As a young man, Willy worked as a mechanic in his father’s shop in Mramorak. Years later, he lived in a displaced persons camp in Linz, Austria, where he was reunited with family, friends and his childhood friend, Mina. Willie and Mina married in 1948, while living in Austria. Seeking a better future for their family, Willy, Mina and their two children immigrated to the U.S. in 1956, sponsored by the Conestoga Church of the Brethren in Leola.
Willy worked as a mechanic for Henry E. Martin & Sons in Lancaster until his retirement in 1986. Willy was a kind and loving father and grandfather. A devoted husband and a hardworking man, he lived on South Cedar Street in Lititz for 50 years, in the home he lovingly maintained. He enjoyed woodworking projects and watching world soccer games. He took great pride and delight in his grandchildren and enjoyed reminiscing with Mina about Mramorak. He was a member of the Lancaster Liederkranz Club, where he helped with renovations and enjoyed the German music, food and companionship.
In addition to his wife he is survived by his son: John Spahr, Staunton, Va.; daughter: Irene Spahr, Arvada, Colo.; four grandchildren: Erik Spahr, Holis, N.H.; Heather Wilgenbusch, Tallahassee, Fla.; Heidi Roberson, Mechanicville, Va.; Irene’s daughter: Marika Emerson, Portland, Ore.; four great-granddaughters; four sisters: Hilda Walton and Paula Todd of Lititz and Julie Lukic and Anna Vlaovic, Serbia; brother: John Spahr, Winchester, Va.; and nieces and nephews in the United States, Germany and Serbia. He was preceded in death by his siblings: Erwin, Therese, Katie and Irene.
Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Burial will be in the Longenecker Brethren Cemetery, Lititz. Memorial contributions in Willy’s memory may be made to the Lancaster Liederkranz, 722 S. Chiques Rd., Manheim, PA 17545.
To send online condolences, please visit richardheiseyfuneralhome.com.