Frank Gail Spencer, concluded his adventurous earthly life Mondy, March 10, 2014.
Gail was born on October 15, 1928, in Sterling, IL, the son of Frank Charles and Bertha Mae (Bailey) Spencer. He graduated from Sterling High School in 1946 and enlisted in the U. S. Army Aircorps and was discharged in 1949. Gail began his working years with Kraft foods in Milledgeville, IL. He also spent time selling insurance and farm equipment, before working at the former Kradle Lumber Yard in Sterling. He enjoyed serving many of his customers at Grummert’s Hardware in his retirement years until 2007.
A musician and singer from birth, Gail played trumpet and drums with many bands; sang and coached numerous Barbershop quartets; was a past member of the Rock River Barbershop Chorus. He then directed the Dixon Sweet Adelines and took them to several competitions. He also sang with the Melody Makers at various functions most recently. Gail also played keyboard and piano in his leisure time.
He enjoyed fishing trips to Wisconsin and staying at his sister’s cabin. Over the years his experiences were relived with family and friends, particularly with his companion of many years, Lola Mae Wade, who preceded him in death in April 2012. Gail liked to travel the countryside, finding new ways home, drinking coffee with his buddies at the Red Apple, and teasing the girls at Parkway.
Surviving are his children: Linda (Tim) Vos of Morrison, IL, Darrel Spencer of Milledgeville and Kalah (Dave) Knutti of Chadwick, IL; six grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, Willis and Naaman Spencer, and his sister, Oleta DePuy.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 13, 2014, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., at the McDonald Funeral Home, 505 1st Avenue in Sterling, IL.
The funeral will follow on Friday, March 14, 2014, at 10:00 a.m., at the funeral home.
Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery in Sterling, IL.
A memorial will be established in his memory.