June 8, 1929 – February 5, 2017
William David Spellman known to his friends and loved ones as “Bill,” and to his beloved children as “Dad,” born June 8, 1929 passing into God’s light February 5, 2017 at the age of 87.
Bill was born and raised in Clay Center, Kansas, the only son of David L. and Sadie M. (Zinke) Spellman. Bill was a complex man with manifold interests that would be developed throughout his lifetime. What follows is but a glimpse into the breadth of his diverse life. An avid dog lover, after graduating High School, he purchased an Indian Chief motorcycle and headed to Mississippi where he trained hound dogs for hunting. Continuing on his motorcycle journey, he rode his Indian down to Texas to stay with relatives and work with their hunting dogs. It was June of 1948 and Bill decided to enlist in the United States Marine Corp where, as it turned out, he was able to pursue both of these interests. He was assigned as an M.P. patrolling the naval supply depot in Oakland, California on an Indian Chief motorcycle, and taking charge of his platoon’s bulldog mascot. Before being honorable discharged in 1952, Bill had become a drill instructor holding the rank of Staff Sergeant.
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