Obituary of David Spanjer

Spanjer, David Lucien 1922 - 2007 After complications following hip surgery that was necessary after a fall during his most recent project. He leaves his wife of 53 years Ella, his daughters Linda and Hellen, his sons-in-law Steve White and Paul Harvey and his grandchildren Christie, Loren, Jason, David, Bruce, and grand-dogs Spike and Sam. Born within the sound of the Bow Bells of St Mary's, David enlisted in WWII at the tender age of 17. His wartime experiences and admiration for Winston Churchill would shape the rest of his life. His proficiency with motors and a lifelong love affair with cars led him to complete an engineering degree and even build his own car. With his wife Ella, David emigrated to Canada in 1956 and together they never looked back. As a professional engineer David's career spanned over 50 years with managing positions at Blaw Knox, Eimco, Canadian Car, and Massey Fergusson. Always preferring to control his own destiny, David built a successful consulting engineering practice. He was an inventor and entrepreneur with a boundless imagination and unprecedented work ethic amassing 13 patents in his name. He was in his element working on projects whether at the cottage, in his workshop, or surrounded by his family. One of his last projects was the 'CANABODE' a Canadian made pre-fabricated collapsible dwelling to aid victims of natural disasters. His unique sense of humor, inventiveness, and positive attitude will be greatly missed by friends and family alike. Thanks to the staff at Scarborough Grace Hospital (ICU & Palliative Care) for their kindness and compassion. A memorial service will take place at the HUMPHREY FUNERAL HOME - A.W. MILES CHAPEL, 1403 Bayview Avenue (south of Eglinton Avenue East) on Saturday December 8th at 1 pm. In David's memory, donations may be made to the Sunnybrook Foundation c/o Dr. Sandra Black, Director, Neurosciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre 2075 Bayview Ave., A421 Toronto Ont. M4N 3M5. Condolences and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.