Earle Seymour Spaar, 99, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 4, 2018. He was predeceased by his parents, George and Mildred Spaar. He is survived by his beloved wife and best friend, Pat; three children and their spouses, Don and Pat Spaar, Cindy and Larry Harris, and Ron and Michelle Spaar; and four grandchildren, Ashley and Lauren Harris and Renee and Jason Spaar. Earle was born in Winsted, Connecticut, and received his elementary and secondary education in the state of Connecticut. He worked for Pratt and Whitney as a Tool and Die maker during World War II making aircraft engines. He also witnessed Ivan Sikorsky fly to work in a “Whirley Bird” that is now known today as a helicopter. He earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science from the State University of New York at Oswego. His first teaching job was at St. Johnsville where he taught Industrial Arts. He then became an associate professor of the Industrial Arts at SUNY Oswego. His next venture was Supervision of Industrial Arts and Technical subjects at the Union-Endicott Public School system. Lastly, he became Assistant Director of the BOCES Occupational Education Division. Earle held many honors including Teacher of the Year in Industrial Arts at the State College at Oswego and a member of Epsilon Pi Tau Honor Society in Industrial Arts.
After retiring from the education world, he went into the private sector and created PAES Industrial. Pat and Earle ran the business for 15 years supporting local businesses as representatives of W.W. Grainger. He also ventured into the medical industry by investing in Nellerk Contact Lens Cases and successfully running the business for more than 30 years. Earle was a sweet, gentle man with a sharp sense of humor. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend who cherished his time spent with family and friends. He was passionate about trains, jigsaw puzzles and travelling the world; an avid reader and storyteller; and a very accomplished woodworker. Many of his furniture pieces are proudly displayed in his children’s homes. He was a walking encyclopedia who enjoyed sharing his vast knowledge of history with others. He was also a huge advocate for Vocational Schools as an alternative to a college education. Throughout his long lifetime he overcame many personal tragedies, including losing his mother from Tuberculosis at the age of 10, as well as suffering from and overcoming TB himself. He always faced these challenges with an upbeat, positive attitude. We would like to thank Dr. Holler from Endwell Family Physicians for all of his support and guidance during this difficult time.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday from 10 to 11 at the Allen Memorial Home, 511-513 East Main Street, Endicott, until an 11 o’clock service, officiated by Reverend Mark Kimpland. In lieu of flowers, donations in Earle’s memory may be made to the Mercy House, 212 North McKinley Avenue, Endicott, NY 13760.