Donald W. Spencer

Donald W. Spencer, 95, of Rolla, passed away on March 10, 2026, at his home. Born on June 2, 1930, in Vandalia, Illinois, to the late Cyrus E. and Elva M. (DeVore) Spencer, he graduated from Vandalia High School in 1948 and from the Missouri School of Mines in 1952.

He married Mabel A. Walker on August 11, 1952, in Rolla. She preceded him in death on February 17, 2010. Don worked for the Army Corps of Engineers and the USGS Water Resources Division. A longtime member of the United Methodist Church in Rolla, he was also active in the Rolla Lions Club, the RC Airplane Club, and the Patriot Guard. He found joy in fishing, singing, riding motorcycles, crafting, woodworking, tinkering with projects, and bowling. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family and friends. Though he could be ornery at times, Don was fun-loving and full of life, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his daughter, Patti J. Spencer of Rolla; his son, Steven E. Spencer and wife Marianne of Naples, Florida; grandchildren Stephanie Waneka, Jennifer Kuzma, Jeffery Spencer, Thomas Spencer and wife Melissa, and Samuel Spencer; great-grandchildren Justin Waneka and wife Cayley, Wyatt Waneka, Addalyn Waneka, Kyllian Higgins, Kayden Kuzma, and Theo Spencer; and great-great-grandchild Ellee Waneka.

In addition to his wife and parents, Donald was preceded in death by a grandson-in-law, Daniel Waneka.